The BRAKE indicator is located in the instrument cluster. The BRAKE indicator will illuminate in order to warn the driver of conditions in the brake system (base braking) which may result in reduced braking capability. It will also illuminate when the parking brake is applied or not fully released. The following conditions will turn on the BRAKE indicator:
- The parking brake is not fully released. If the parking brake is applied or the lever is not fully released, the switch on the parking brake lever assembly will ground the BRAKE indicator circuit and cause it to illuminate.
- The brake fluid level is low. If the brake fluid level drops in the master cylinder reservoir, the fluid level sensor will ground the BRAKE indicator circuit, causing the BRAKE indicator to illuminate.
- During engine cranking the BRAKE indicator remains on. This notifies the driver that the warning circuit is operating properly.
Important:
• The illumination of the BRAKE indicator may indicate reduced braking
ability. • If the BRAKE indicator lights, the brake fluid level is normal
and the parking brake circuit is functioning properly, then a malfunction
with the braking system exists. • On vehicles equipped with Antilock Brake System (ABS), the BRAKE
indicator will also alert the driver if an ABS malfunction has affected the
base brake system operation. For diagnosis of the ABS, refer to
ABS Description
in Antilock Brake System
