Every once in a while when I hit the brakes a little bit harder than usual the red brake warning light comes on for a second or two and then goes out. If I brake gradually it never comes on. It doesn't happen all the time. It might come on once or twice during some hard braking and then not come on again for the rest of the drive.

Any ideas? I am not hitting the brakes hard enough to activate the antilock brake system, on a scale of one to ten maybe braking at a 5 or 6 where a 9 would trigger the antilock sytem. If I drive normally and just use the brakes lightly the light never comes on. No noises at all from any of the brakes.
Just trying to save some $$$ so I don't have to take it into the dealership.

The help and info on this forum is better than a set of shop manuals!

 

My brake fluid was a little low one time and caused what you are describing.

I took my SC430 in for a brake job and they told me I didn't need any and topped off my fluid level. It never has happened since. That was 6 months ago.

Hope that helps,

lar

 

Thanks,
I never thought of that. So now I am thinking if the brake pads are worn, the caliper pistons are moving out further so I am using more brake fluid. Low Fluid! Might be time for new slotted rotors and pads. And a brake fluid change!

 

yep, very possible.

 

That fixed it. It took about 2 ounces of brake fluid to top it off and no more lights came on when driving. Pads are down to about 1/10th inch both front and rear so I think I just found out what I get to do next weekend.

Thanks for the help

 

I'm glad that took care of your problem.

Welcome to CL

lar