Brake Warning Indicator: Description and Operation

The brake system light goes on to alert the driver that the parking brake is applied, or that the brake fluid level is low. It also goes on as a bulb test when the engine is cranked.


Parking Brake

With the ignition switch in RUN or START, voltage is applied through fuse 23 to the brake system light. When you apply the parking brake, the switch closes and provides a ground for the light. The brake system light goes on to remind the driver that the parking brake is applied.


Brake Fluid Level

With the ignition switch in RUN or START, voltage is applied through fuse 23 to the brake system light. If the brake fluid level is low, the brake fluid level switch closes and ground is provided to the circuit. The brake system light then comes on, indicating low brake fluid in the brake master cylinder. NOTE: Check brake pad wear before adding fluid.


Bulb Check

With the ignition switch in START voltage is applied to the bulb check circuit. The bulb check circuit closes, allowing current to flow through the brake system light and bulb check circuit to ground. The brake system light then comes on momentarily to test its bulb.