Your dashboard has more than one brake-related warning light, and they do not all mean the same thing. Knowing which is which - and how urgent each is - helps you react correctly. Here is a guide to the common brake warning lights.
The red BRAKE light
The red brake warning light (often the word BRAKE or a circle with an exclamation mark) is the serious one. It can mean:
- The parking brake is engaged - the most common and harmless reason; release it fully.
- Low brake fluid - which can mean worn pads or, more seriously, a leak.
- A pressure imbalance between the brake circuits, which points to a hydraulic problem.
If the red light is on with the parking brake released, treat it as urgent - check fluid and have the brakes inspected. A red brake light plus a soft pedal means do not drive. See brake pedal goes to the floor.
The amber ABS light
The amber ABS light means the anti-lock braking system has a fault and has turned itself off. Your normal brakes still work; you just lose anti-lock until it is fixed. Common causes are a wheel speed sensor. See ABS warning light and how ABS works.
Both lights together
If the red BRAKE light and the amber ABS light are on at the same time, take it seriously - that combination can indicate a bigger brake-system fault, and stability/traction systems may be affected too. Have it diagnosed promptly.
A brake pad wear light
Some vehicles have a dedicated brake pad wear message triggered by an electronic sensor - see brake pad wear sensors. It simply means the pads are low; plan a replacement with the correct pads for your vehicle.
The bottom line
Amber usually means reduced assistance or a system off; red usually means stop and check. When in doubt, especially with the red light, have the brakes inspected before driving - they are safety-critical.