UserAtmosphere

Hey guys, over the past few days I have noticed an issue with my emergency brake switch not being pressurized to where the light will go off.

My brakes are fine, the cable works as it should, but randomly I will have to apply and re-apply the parking brake, and usually push to the right and back to affect the brake switch, otherwise the light stays on and the car screams at me until I fix it.

It really only happens when it's cold.

The question is, how do I get to it, and what is the probable fix.

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

Check brake fluid level.

UserAtmosphere

Checked the fluid, it's dirty, but not low, and I wouldn't think that the brake fluid would be an issue on a cable system.

Going to take the center console apart to check the switch, only real other option.

UserAtmosphere

It ended up being something insanely stupid that I wouldn't have found if I hadn't taken the center console apart.


This is what was going on. The depression portion of the lever itself was bent and was not making contact with the switch at all. Took vice grips and lovingly bent it back so that it would fit.

Turbonut

iTrader: (1)

You learn something new every day. From the owner's manual:
If the brake system indicator comes on while driving, the brake fluid level
is probably low.

Glad you found the problem.

polobunny

Another thing to add to the book of things that can go stupidly wrong. At least the fix was cheap! Great that you posted pics too.

UserAtmosphere

No kidding! And the fix was almost free, all it took was a few minutes!

Just popped the trim, unscrewed maybe 10 screws, moved the console back 4 inches, and vice gripped away!

And I have learned to document my travels regarding auto repair, for my own or other's future use.

aIRpeACE

iTrader: (2)

good find