Is Your Brake Light On? What Your Vehicle Is Trying to Tell You

Since you rely on your brakes to slow and stop your vehicle, it’s essential to have a properly working braking system. If a brake light warning appears on your Ford vehicle’s instrument cluster, it’s letting you know that there’s an issue — and your vehicle may not be safe to drive.

Because brakes are crucial for safety, you should never ignore a brake warning light. We’ll highlight some of the common reasons a brake light might appear on your dashboard below. If you see one pop up, you can schedule an appointment at Mike Reichenbach Ford and let our service techs handle it!

Common Reasons for a Brake Light Warning

If you see a warning light appear on your dashboard, the cause could be as simple as an unreleased emergency brake or a more serious issue such as low brake fluid. 

Emergency Brake Is On

Did you forget to release the emergency brake? If so, you may see a brake system warning lamp illuminate when you start driving. Thankfully, that’s a simple fix — just disengage the brake and be on your way! However, if the light stays on after you do this, have one of our service experts take a look to discover what the issue may be.

Anti-Lock Braking System Issue

Your Ford model’s Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is responsible for keeping the wheels from locking up when you have to brake hard and quickly. This helps you avoid skidding and stay in control of the vehicle. The ABS also comes in handy when you’re driving on slippery road conditions. 

If you see the ABS warning lamp turn on, it may be telling you that there is an issue with the system. Your brakes will continue to work, but you risk driving without the added protection of the ABS. Bring your Ford to us, and we’ll take a look!

Low Brake Fluid 

An illuminated brake system warning lamp may indicate that the brake fluid level is low, which could be caused by a leak. Your brakes need brake fluid to function properly, so be sure to have one of our experts perform an inspection as soon as possible.

Brake System Sensor or Electrical Problem

A brake warning light could also be caused by sensor or electrical problems. Schedule an appointment with our service team and let our technicians diagnose the issue.

Other Brake-Related Warning Lights

Worn Brake Pads 

Brake pads wear out eventually, and you may hear squealing, screeching, or grinding sounds as an indicator that it’s time to replace them. But your Ford may also come with a helpful brake pad wear warning lamp. If you see it turn on, you’ll know the brake pads have worn down, so you can bring your Ford in for a brake pad inspection and replacement. Don’t wait too long because worn-out brake pads can cause damage to the rotors and calipers.

Brake Light is Out

Your Ford may also be able to tell you when a brake light is out and needs replaced. If you see the exterior bulb failure warning lamp turn on, be sure to check which exterior lightbulb is out.

Schedule Ford Brake Service and Repairs with Mike Reichenbach Ford of Florence

If your vehicle’s brake system warning lamp, anti-lock brake system warning lamp, brake pad wear warning lamp, or exterior bulb failure warning lamp is on and you’re not sure of the cause, schedule an appointment with our Ford service center. We offer quality brake service and repairs for Ford cars, SUVs, and trucks.

Whether it’s time for new brake pads, the brake fluid is low, or the rotors need replaced, you can trust our committed team of certified auto technicians to keep your Ford running — and stopping — smoothly. Mike Reichenbach Ford is proud to serve locals in Sumter, Lake City, and Darlington, and we look forward to serving you, too. Schedule an appointment with us today!

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