Low brakefluid warning light!

[novacaine]

Hi all

So today while driving to work the brake fluid warning light popped on! I've checked the fluid level, which is fine and I had the wheels off this weekend, so I had a check of the braided hoses, front Hispec kit etc, and there was no obvious leaks.

I have to admit I’m becoming more confident in my HiSpec upgrade, so I’m breaking later and maybe a little harder than before. So I'm hoping it is just the force of the brakes pulling the front of the car down and therefore increasing the angle of the brake fluid reservoir allowing the fluid to move out of range of the sensor.

I just feel I need another opinion before I drive home and possible end up in a hedge!

[Brit-Car-Nut]

If you are slightly low on brake fluid, the light will come on intermittently, while stopping or cornering. Just top it up and if the light still continues to come on intermittently, you probably have a bad sensor in the resevoir.

If the light came on and STAYED on, you could have the hand brake handle slightly raised. Make sure the hand brake handle is fully released and the handle completely lowered.

brake-light.jpg

[novacaine]

My fluid is pretty just under the max line, so I'm pretty sure its not the fluid levels. The handbrake was off as the 2nd light for the handbrake was not on.

Most likely a dodgy sensor then I guess

Cheers BCN

[rip]

It's a fussy sensor. Your fluid level does not have to be a lot below the Max line for it to start warning you.

[chrisP]

I had the same problem ages ago, The reservoir is now 'brimmed' to stop the problem.

[nicowalker1]

As Rip and Chris have said, just brim the res. Mine does it after a while as the pads wear down and the level drops slightly when breaking or cornering hard.
Nice easy fix and one I personally wouldnt worry about. (I am extremely cautious when it comes to anything brake related...)
Now if you topped it right up and it re occured and fluid had dropped again then id PANIC!

[novacaine]

I had the same problem ages ago, The reservoir is now 'brimmed' to stop the problem.

Is the not a negative effect to filling above the max line?

[Simon_P]

First check that the sensor is clean and seated correctly.

[Rusty Wishbone]

If you find you have to replace the sensor, they are only available with the reservoir. Fortunately, the combo is cheap at less than £15.

[novacaine]

At least they are cheap if I do need one!

The sensor looks as though it is seated right, so I've gone for the top it up a bit more option

[superbad]

I had the same problem ages ago, The reservoir is now 'brimmed' to stop the problem.

Is the not a negative effect to filling above the max line?

One, but it's minor. When you go to replace the pads, the thicker pads will push the caliper pistons in, and force more fluid into the reservoir. If you have it filled all the way, this excess fluid will overflow out the top. You can syringe out some fluid before a pad change to prevent this.

In addition to warning you of a fluid leak, the light is intended to let you know when the pads are becoming worn and ready to be replaced (as the pads wear, the pistons extend and the reservoir level drops). Changing calipers alters the relationship between piston travel and displacement, bringing the light on sooner.