The vehicle's hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part is not working, the other part can still work and stop the vehicle. For good braking, though, both parts should be working well.
This light should come on briefly when the ignition key is turned to RUN. If it does not come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.
When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will also come on when the parking brake is set. The light will stay on if the parking brake does not release fully. If it stays on after the parking brake is fully released, it means the vehicle has a brake problem.
The PARKING BRAKE ON message will also appear in the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the parking brake is set and the vehicle is going faster than 5 mph. See DIC Warnings and Messages for more information.
The brake warning light may also come on when the brake fluid is low. If this occurs, the LOW BRAKE FLUID message will also appear in the Driver Information Center (DIC). See DIC Warnings and Messages for more information.
If the brake warning light comes on while the vehicle is being driven, pull off the road and stop carefully. The brake pedal may be harder to push, or it may go closer to the floor. It may also take the vehicle 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.