break light and anti-lock system

[Y.H. Shen]

Hi,

Recently, I drove my 96 Outback in snow and my anti-lock breaks were engaged
several times (worked perfectly!). However, my break light came on after
that and stayed on for a day before going off. Should I be concerned?

-Steve

 

[Y.H. Shen]

Oh! I should clarify a bit more... It was the break light indicator in the
instrument cluster that stayed on for about a day.

-Steve

 

[Marc Soloway]

When you say brake light indicator, do you mean ABS light?

This is one of the warning lights that generally go off after you start the
car. The computer runs through some checks and determines if everything is
functioning ok. If the light comes on and stays on continuously it is
something to be concerned with. Slam Hard on the brakes, does the ABS work?
If not, then you have your answer a sensor is gone, the brakes work fine
just no ABS. Our cars slowed fine without ABS, but they are safer.

If the BRAKE light is on check your emergency brake;.

Marc

 

[Carl 1 Lucky Texan]

Check the brake fluid level as well as the e-brake. The same light is
used to indicate low brake fluid level.

Carl
1 Lucky Texan

 

[Y.H. Shen]

Thanks! It was the "Break" indicator, not the ABS indicator. I'll check to
see the fluid level.

-Steve