hand brake warning light

[meek.tv]

......has started illuminating when i come to a stop whilst facing down hill on steepish gradients. any ideas why

and no its not because i have put the handbrake on

[brorabongo]

from...... http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/br ... ights.html

Illumination after releasing the handbrake may indicate low brake fluid level.

Nice easy one to check anyway.

[missfixit70]

I'd go with that Brora.

[Sar N Ade]

Our brake light came on in the Forest of Dean (a bit unnerving with all those hills...)
There is nothing in the handbook (apart from contact the Mazda dealer) and I couldn't see a fact sheet about the brake fluid.
So, what do we need to do if the light comes on? Do we need to top up the brake fluid or replace it? What type should we use? Or is it a garage mechanic issue?

Thanks in advance for any help

Sarah

[haydn callow]

Just check the level in the brake fluid tank under the bonnet....top up if required.

[missfixit70]

Use DOT4 brake fluid. If it hasn't been changed in your ownership, may be advisable to get a garage to change it as it's supposed to be done every two years.You also need to find out why it's dropped, cos it shouldn't unless it's leaking somewhere.

[mikexgough]

Brake fluid is not considered a "top up" fluid. If it is low, there is usually a problem. Brake fluid level in the master cylinder will drop as the linings (pads or shoes) wear and the calipers or wheel cylinders extend further to compensate. This added fluid may need to be removed when renewing pads or shoes
Your brake pads maybe getting low, should you need to top up then use DOT4 and minimal amount, as if the pads are low then you will have to remove the excess you add...

[Sar N Ade]

Thanks everyone Helpful advice as ever

We are now going to check the front and back brakes with a view to changing them before our next weekend trip.
I have printed off the fact sheet for reference.

Gosh this club is useful

Sarah

[Rhinoman]

Brake fluid is not considered a "top up" fluid. If it is low, there is usually a problem. Brake fluid level in the master cylinder will drop as the linings (pads or shoes) wear and the calipers or wheel cylinders extend further to compensate. This added fluid may need to be removed when renewing pads or shoes
Your brake pads maybe getting low, should you need to top up then use DOT4 and minimal amount, as if the pads are low then you will have to remove the excess you add...

This is very true, the brake system is usually designed such that the brake light will come on when the pads are worn and need replacing. The fluid should only be topped up, if necessary, when the pads are replaced.

[A1tony]

I am guessing there could be other reasons. My brake warning light came on yesterday. Looking at the pads, they are nearly new. Going to check the sensor cables, if it's not that then maybe the handbrake needs adjusting. Either way I am not losing fluid so more investigation required !!

[rita]

I am guessing there could be other reasons. My brake warning light came on yesterday. Looking at the pads, they are nearly new. Going to check the sensor cables, if it's not that then maybe the handbrake needs adjusting. Either way I am not losing fluid so more investigation required !!

Hi

Hi,it sounds like your hand brake switch could be faulty.

[dave_aber]

Try raising your roof with the handbrake off (but stopped, obviously!). If it works, it could be the handbrake switch.

[scanner]

Use DOT4 brake fluid. If it hasn't been changed in your ownership, may be advisable to get a garage to change it as it's supposed to be done every two years.You also need to find out why it's dropped, cos it shouldn't unless it's leaking somewhere.

It will drop as the pads wear and more fluid is held in the calipers

[A1tony]

Try raising your roof with the handbrake off (but stopped, obviously!). If it works, it could be the handbrake switch.

Roger that, I will, give it a go..

if it is the switch, where is it ? on the back of the lever mechanism or elsewhere ??

Many thanks

[dave_aber]

Pop the centre console off, and it's right at the back of the handbrake lever.