Why is my brake light on?
Why Is My Brake Light On? Mississippi Drivers—Here’s What You Need to Know Before It Becomes Dangerous
When the brake light shows up on your dashboard—especially while you’re driving—it’s a warning you shouldn’t take lightly. Whether you’re cruising through Starkville, Columbus, or West Point, a brake light usually means something in your vehicle’s most important safety system needs attention. Fast.
At William Wells Tire & Auto, we’ve seen how quickly a small warning can turn into a big problem if ignored. This guide will help you:
- Understand what the brake light really means
- Identify the top causes
- Know what to do immediately
- Learn how our expert team can keep you safe and back on the road
What Does the Brake Light on My Dashboard Mean?
The brake warning light can show up as:
- A red or amber circle with an exclamation mark
- The word
“BRAKE”
- Or a “P” symbol (linked to the parking brake)
If it lights up while driving—or stays on after startup—it means your vehicle has detected a problem with your braking system. In some cases, it may also be tied to your ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Top 7 Reasons Your Brake Light May Be On
1. Low Brake Fluid
Brake fluid powers your car’s hydraulic braking system. When it’s low, your vehicle can’t generate enough pressure to stop properly—and your warning light turns on.
Common causes:
- Normal brake pad wear
- Leaks in brake lines or master cylinder
- Moisture or contamination in the brake fluid
What to do: Let our ASE-certified technicians at any William Wells Tire & Auto location check your brake fluid, inspect for leaks, and restore full system pressure.
2. Worn Brake Pads
Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that detect when brake pads are too thin. When they wear past a certain point, the brake light may activate to prevent damage to the rotors.
Signs your pads are worn:
- Squealing or grinding when braking
- Vibrations or pulsing brake pedal
- Slower stopping response
What to do: Stop by one of our shops for a brake inspection. We’ll let you know exactly how much pad life is left—and replace them if necessary.
3. Parking Brake Not Fully Released
A partially engaged parking brake is one of the most overlooked reasons for a brake warning light. It might be a stuck cable or a faulty sensor.
What to do: Release the parking brake fully. If the light doesn’t go off, let us inspect the brake mechanism and make sure it's operating properly.
4. ABS System Fault
Many vehicles combine the ABS and brake system warnings. If both lights are on, it could indicate a failure in the Anti-lock Braking System.
Possible causes:
- Faulty wheel speed sensor
- Malfunctioning ABS module
- Loss of hydraulic pressure in the ABS circuit
What to do: ABS may not affect day-to-day driving, but it plays a key role during emergency stops or slick conditions. We offer full ABS diagnostics at all three locations.
5. Brake Light Switch Failure
This switch, found near the brake pedal, tells your vehicle’s computer—and your rear brake lights—when you’re braking. If it fails:
- Your brake lights may not work
- Your dash warning light may stay on
What to do: It’s a fast, affordable repair. Our team can test and replace the switch during a quick visit.
6. Hydraulic Leak or Master Cylinder Failure
A soft, spongy, or sinking brake pedal could mean your system is leaking fluid or your master cylinder is failing. This is a dangerous condition and can lead to total brake failure.
What to do: Do not drive the vehicle. Call any of our locations in Starkville, Columbus, or West Point for safe inspection and repair.
7. Sensor or Electrical Glitch
Sometimes the brake warning light can be triggered by a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or a short in the system.
What to do: Bring your car in for a professional diagnostic. Our shops are equipped with advanced tools to identify electrical faults and verify the integrity of your braking system.
What To Do If the Brake Light Comes On
- Pull over in a safe area
- Check the parking brake – Make sure it’s fully released
- Press the brake pedal – Does it feel soft or sink to the floor?
- Look for fluid leaks – Any puddles under the vehicle?
- Call or visit William Wells Tire & Auto – We'll take it from there
Why Mississippi Drivers Trust William Wells Tire & Auto for Brake Repair
Whether you’re in Starkville, Columbus, or West Point, our local, family-owned shops have been trusted for years to deliver:
- Certified brake inspections and diagnostics
- Brake pad and rotor replacement
- ABS troubleshooting and repair
- Brake fluid flushes and hydraulic system repairs
- No-pressure service with honest recommendations
Our technicians are experienced, transparent, and focused on protecting your family and your vehicle—with the right repair, the first time.
Don’t Take Risks—That Brake Light Means Business
A brake warning light means your vehicle is asking for help. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Whether it’s a minor issue or a major safety concern, the smart move is to bring it to the pros.
📍 Visit any of our three locations:
Starkville:
12919 MS-182, Starkville, MS 39759
(662) 268-4081
Columbus:
1625 Gardner Blvd, Columbus, MS 39702
(662) 240-2414
West Point:
93 W Broad St, West Point, MS 39773
(662) 495-8558
🌐 Schedule online or stop in today!
For more information please watch out video.
