Brake light
Thread Starter
|
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 475
Likes: 0
From: Winnipeg, Mb. Canada
Brake light
94 Explorer Sport 4.0 4x4
Starting a couple of weeks ago, I noticed the brake light was coming on when coming to a stop. More pronounced during the morning when it was cool and damp out. Much less in the afternoon and was only apparent when I had to hard brake. Now it seems to come on more often, even after the truck has warmed up.
Is this "brake" light only related to the parking brake?
I've checked the brake fluid level and it is ok as are the brake hoses. I've also pulled on the brake release cable but no difference. I was tempted to apply the parking brake, but didn't since I haven't used it in over 3 years and am afraid it will lock in the brake position.
Starting a couple of weeks ago, I noticed the brake light was coming on when coming to a stop. More pronounced during the morning when it was cool and damp out. Much less in the afternoon and was only apparent when I had to hard brake. Now it seems to come on more often, even after the truck has warmed up.
Is this "brake" light only related to the parking brake?
I've checked the brake fluid level and it is ok as are the brake hoses. I've also pulled on the brake release cable but no difference. I was tempted to apply the parking brake, but didn't since I haven't used it in over 3 years and am afraid it will lock in the brake position.
Elder User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 508
Likes: 0
From: Webster, NY
Usually the brake light on the dash is dual purpose. (1) indicates the parking brake is applied and (2) when the parking brake is not applied it will illuminate to indicate low brake fluid.
I know this is the case for my 97 mountaineer and has also been the case for the 4 other cars I have had. I know that there was a similar discussion about something like this in another thread here. In that case there was mention of a newer (03?) Explorer where it has two separate lights. You'll need to check the user's manual.
How long since you did the brake pads?
I know this is the case for my 97 mountaineer and has also been the case for the 4 other cars I have had. I know that there was a similar discussion about something like this in another thread here. In that case there was mention of a newer (03?) Explorer where it has two separate lights. You'll need to check the user's manual.
How long since you did the brake pads?
Last edited by K2JJB; Sep 19, 2005 at 12:48 PM.
Thread Starter
|
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 475
Likes: 0
From: Winnipeg, Mb. Canada
OK, just read the manual(DUHHHH!)
Dual purpose light as you said. Double checked fluid level and it is down a bit, but not much. Topped it off and will take it for a ride shortly. Pads and rotors replaced about a year and a half ago.
Dual purpose light as you said. Double checked fluid level and it is down a bit, but not much. Topped it off and will take it for a ride shortly. Pads and rotors replaced about a year and a half ago.
Thread Starter
|
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 475
Likes: 0
From: Winnipeg, Mb. Canada
Well, that seemed to do the trick. Didn't take much either, only about an ounce or so. It was only about 1/4 inch below the max line. Anyway, took it for a long ride with lots of stop signs and it didn't come on once. Big test will be tomorrow morning as morning is when it's the worst.
Thanks K2JJB.
Thanks K2JJB.
Elder User
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 508
Likes: 0
From: Webster, NY
Yeah, just make sure you keep an eye on it. The system is a sealed system and that means that it is low for a reason. So it might be that the pads are worn and need replacement (lowering the fluid in the resavoir just enough to kick the light on) or that there is small leak in the system (not good!). Just keep an eye on it and I would check the brake pads if you have the wheels off any time soon.
-John B
-John B
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
steeleygreg
1997 - 2006 Expedition & Navigator
18
Feb 23, 2017 09:01 AM
