Your vehicle's hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn't working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. The red BRAKE light should come on for a few seconds during engine starting, as a system check.

Also, the red BRAKE light should be on when the parking brake is engaged, and the light should stay on when the parking brake is not fully released and the ignition is on.

Additionally, a chime will sound and the red brake light will be on if the parking brake is not fully released and the vehicle is in motion. Have the system checked and repaired if the light does not come on when it should.

The warning system is designed so that the red BRAKE light will come on if the brake fluid in the system is below the correct lever. The light may flicker off and on or stay on to indicate a low brake fluid level. The warning light does not do away with the need for regular inspection of the brake fluid. See Brakes for more information.

If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See Towing Your Vehicle .

Caution: The brake system might not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to a crash. If the light is still on after the vehicle has been pulled off the road and carefully stopped, have the vehicle towed for service.