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Parking Brake Warning Light

Amber - needs attention

handbrake light · emergency brake light · (P) brake light

What it means

This light most commonly just means the parking brake is engaged, but if it stays on after you release it, it can share the same circuit as the brake fluid warning.

Common causes

  • Parking brake left engaged
  • Parking brake cable stuck or not fully releasing
  • Low brake fluid (shared warning circuit in many cars)
  • Worn rear brake shoes on drum-in-hat setups

What to do

Confirm the parking brake is fully released. If the light stays on, check brake fluid level next - on many vehicles this light doubles as the brake fluid warning described above.

Can you keep driving?

Yes, once you confirm the parking brake is released and fluid level is normal. If it stays on with the brake fully released and fluid full, have the parking brake mechanism inspected.

Don't guess what's wrong with your car

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Find a repair shop

Run a shop? The OBD decoder, fuse box diagrams and parts catalog are built into the Motoro dashboard. See Motoro for workshops

Descriptions are for guidance only and do not replace a workshop inspection. If you are ever unsure whether it is safe to keep driving, pull over in a safe spot.

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