Brake Warning Light

[TaffyTim 6]

My brake warning light is starting to flash every now and then and my handbrake is coming up an extra click or trip before it actives do I think I need to pop some bree shoes in.

 

I've only done this once before and remember it being a bit fiddly, do I need any special tools and does any one have any tips?

 

Ps I can't see how to search the forum using a mobile so apologies for what must be a common question

[Anthony 1,002]

WRT the brake warning light, check that the brake fluid level is at max - when it's getting low (even if still above minimum) it can cause the light to flash on as the fluid moves around in the reservoir. There isn't a wear sensor or anything on the rear shoes.

[TaffyTim 6]

The fluid was the first thing I checked when the light came on but its on the max mark.

 

Could there be an iffy wire giving a false reading if so where?

 

I'm pretty sure my front pads should be ok, but I'll have a look at them later.

 

I was none to concerned thinking it was just the rears, but if there's no warning light for them I am now.

[Anthony 1,002]

I assume that you mean the handbrake/fluid warning light (red, underneath STOP)? If so, that only does handbrake on and fluid low.

 

Front pad wear is an orange circular warning light.

[TaffyTim 6]

I assume that you mean the handbrake/fluid warning light (red, underneath STOP)? If so, that only does handbrake on and fluid low.

 

Front pad wear is an orange circular warning light.

 

No I mean the brake pad warning light thats top left of the speed dial.

 

It only flashes on for a split second normally, every now and again it'll stay illuminated for 5 to 10 seconds.

 

I looked at the pads today and theres 11mm left on all 4 of them, so its not the pads being low.

 

I didnt realise the low fluid was done by the handbrake light so it looks like that is ruled out.

 

Also I dont think that there are any sensors on my pads to indicate their level so why would the light be doing this?

[Anthony 1,002]

The brake wear wires are probably shorting against the chassis somewhere, which will illuminate the light.

[TaffyTim 6]

Thats good then, thanks for helping. Its saved new a lot of aggro messing with the shoes and a but of cash too

[Tom Fenton 1,536]

It sounds to me like you haven't a clue what the condition of the rear brakes is, a proper yearly service should include removing the rear drums to inspect the shoes and drum, also to check wheel cylinders are not weeping. I would suggest when you have time you pop the drums off for a look around and a clean up.

[TaffyTim 6]

Most parts back there are newish (les than 10,000 miles) so it should generally be ok! But I couldn't remember seeing shoes listed on my invoice from miles when I looked at it last.

 

It has been a couple of years though so maybe I will have a gander at them before its mot on friday.