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Brake warning light: what it means and what to do

Red (!) in a circle, or the word BRAKE

Stop nowPull over safely as soon as you can and get help.

Either the handbrake is on, the brake fluid is low, or there's a fault in the brake system. If the handbrake is fully off and the light stays on, get the brakes checked before driving further.

What it means

This light shares duty with the handbrake. With the handbrake released, it usually means the brake fluid has dropped, which can happen as pads wear or when there's a leak.

Can I keep driving?

Not until it's checked, unless it was just the handbrake.

What to do now

  1. Make sure the handbrake is fully released.
  2. If the light stays on, check the brake fluid level in the reservoir under the bonnet.
  3. If the pedal feels soft, sinks or travels further than usual, don't drive. Call for help.

Common causes

  • Handbrake not fully released
  • Low brake fluid
  • Worn brake pads
  • A leak or fault in the brake system

Shops near you that can check this

Closest first. Your location stays on your phone.

Car Lab

Auckland CBD

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

See all mechanics in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with the brake warning light on?

Not until it's checked, unless it was just the handbrake.

What does the brake warning light mean?

Either the handbrake is on, the brake fluid is low, or there's a fault in the brake system. If the handbrake is fully off and the light stays on, get the brakes checked before driving further.

What should I do when the brake warning light comes on?

Make sure the handbrake is fully released. If the light stays on, check the brake fluid level in the reservoir under the bonnet. If the pedal feels soft, sinks or travels further than usual, don't drive. Call for help.

Need a tow? Call now

If anyone is hurt or you're in danger, call 111 first. Get off the road and wait behind the barrier.

Call AA Roadservice 0800 500 222

Members and non-members can call. Have your location and rego ready.

Other numbers to try

  • Your insurer's roadside line. Many policies include a free tow, and it's on your policy card or app.
  • Your car maker's roadside assistance, if the car is new enough.
  • A local tow company. Search "tow truck" with your suburb, and ask the price before you agree.

Need it fixed after? Find a shop near you and call them.

Book

What for?

Free to book. The shop texts to confirm, and gives you a written quote before any work.