Why is My Brake Light On?

Have you ever seen that menacing glow on your dashboard while driving or going about your business as usual? Does this make you wonder, 'Why is my brake light on?'.

Yes, the brake light is the one that resembles a little exclamation point enclosed in a circle. Although that's not something you want to witness while driving, it does occur. Why, then, is the brake light on?

Midwest Aftermarket presents elaborated reasoning to help you understand the answer to 'Why are my brake lights on?' so you can easily cater to these (somewhat annoying) concerns.

What Does It Mean When the Brake Light Comes On?

Getting stuck in thinking, 'Why is my brake light flashing?' is natural for a regular driver. Please be mindful that a flashing brake light necessitates quick attention. However, a constant brake light can suggest persistent problems with your braking system. The most severe issues that a flashing brake light indicates are:

  • Braking system failure
  • Hydraulic breakdown

To prevent potential safety problems in such situations, it is imperative that you pull over safely and get your car inspected by our adept professionals as soon as possible.

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Inoperative Brake Switch

You are driving to your destination and suddenly notice the lights despite you turning them on. In such scenarios, it is expected to think, 'Why are my brake lights staying on?'.

Brake switch malfunctions are among the most frequent causes of a persistent brake light. To sense when the brake pedal is pushed, this switch is usually situated close to the top of the brake pedal assembly. It may not engage the brake pedal when it fails, causing the brake light to remain on.

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Low Level of Brake Fluid

A low amount of brake fluid is another possible cause of your brake light remaining on. Being responsibly attentive about your vehicle requires you to address minor issues promptly. Do the prerequisite math to get the answers to your questions, such as, 'Why is my brake light on?'.

Your brake light may appear as a warning that they might not be working to their full potential if the fluid level is too low.

Deteriorated Brake Pads

Your brake lights may remain on due to worn brake pads. Brake calipers may need to extend farther than usual. It happens when brake pads deteriorate over time to make up for the thinner pads. The greater distance between the brake pedal and the calipers may cause the brake light to illuminate.

Brake Light Switch Setting

The problem could occasionally lie in the setup of the brake switch rather than the switch itself. Inaccurate signals that the brake pedal is engaged when it might not result from misaligned or calibrated switches. In certain situations, troubleshooting the issue can need a minor switch modification.

Electrical Problems

Sometimes electrical problems within the car are the answer to, 'Why is my brake light on?'. Erroneous brake light lighting might result from short circuits, broken wiring, or faulty connections interfering with the brake light system's correct operation.

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The Bottom Line

So, now you know all the possible reasons behind, 'Why is my brake light on?'.

A persistently illuminated brake light is a sign of underlying problems – major and minor. If your car has a problem, it is vital to fix it immediately to maintain its safety and functionality. It includes worn brake pads, low brake fluid levels, malfunctioning brake switches, and electrical problems.

Get our expert assistance if you need clarification on your brake light issues. Please stay safe and cautious while handling brake-related problems with us.