Brake warning light

gatortom · 07-05-2002, 06:41 AM

The red brake warning light on my '72 914 has started flashing when the key is on.

My Haynes does not get too specific about what could be wrong, just states that there is a problem with "half of the brake system".

Front calipers, rotors and pads are new. All rear parts have some miles on them but look good. Master cylinder is of unknown age, but is not leaking.

Nothing is obviously wrong- no leaks anywhere, everything looks OK, the brakes work as well as they always have, and the pedal feels the same.

Anyone have any ideas as to what the problem may be?

Tom

Kevin Powers · 07-05-2002, 07:31 AM

you may need reset the low brake fluid pressure button on the side of the master cly or behind the switch.

rfoulds · rfoulds's Garage

reset the switch on the master. Also, check the emergency brake switch. Did the light used to come on when the E-Brake was up? Does pulling the E brake change the light flashing pattern now? If not, it may be that switch.

gatortom · 07-06-2002, 06:46 AM

Can't find a reset switch on the master cylinder. Having the emergency brake on does not make a difference. When the brake was on in the past, the light never lit up.

Tom

Paul_Heery · Paul_Heery's Garage

Tom -

Here is what you need to do to reset the warning light.

http://www.pelicanparts.com/914/914QA/914Q_brakes_e_light.htm

However, I know that I would have an easier feeling if I knew what caused the light to come on in the first place.

Since the light never blinked before when the ebrake was on, that may simple be caused by the switch on the ebrake not being activated. Since you have already gone over most of the braking system, I would recommend that you bleed the brakes, reset the switch, then go out and carefully test the brakes.

gatortom · 07-06-2002, 07:16 AM

Paul,

Excellent info- thanks. I have reset it and will do some testing today.

Tom

mejulihn · mejulihn's Garage

Tom,
It is not unusual for the e-brake contact switch to get corroded or have a broken wire. The switch is located on the forward cross-member of the floorpan that supports the seat recliner pawl. Cleaning/repairing this switch may restore its normal function which is to illuminate the dash light when the brake is on.