Urgency: Moderate
Parking Brake Light
Investigate soon. Driving short distances is generally okay, but book a diagnostic check.
What the Parking Brake Light Means
On the your car, this red 'P' or (!) symbol means the parking brake is engaged. A light that persists once released points to a sensor, the parking brake mechanism, or low brake fluid.
Common Causes
- Parking brake still applied
- Parking brake not fully released
- Faulty parking brake switch/sensor
- Low brake fluid (shared warning)
- Electronic parking brake fault
How to Fix It
- Fully release the parking brake
- Check the handbrake lever/switch returns properly
- Verify the brake fluid level
- For electronic brakes, cycle the switch and scan for faults
- Repair the switch or EPB motor if it persists