Do I need new brakes?

Question

I drive an older car (94 Chevy Lumina) Runs great but noticed a lit icon on the dashboard. It says !()P Brake.(something similar to that anyway)
Does this mean I need to get brand new brakes or something else. They are sqeeking a lil bit. I dont have an owners manual. Dont want mechanics to take advantage because obviously I have no clue. All answers related to the question are appreciated.

Answer 1

Check your brake fuid level first. Most cars use the parking brake warning for the low fluid level too.

Answer 2

I think your parking brake is active not by the release but by the actual mechanism. get a towl and go under the rear of the car (while its off of course) there should be a tight wire running from one rear wheel to the next, pull that towards you. You should hear a sping pop back into place confirming that it has been reset

Answer 3

If there is a P there, then it probably has something to do with your parking brake. But, if you are hearing a squeaking noise, then, yes, your brakes are telling you that soon you will need to replace your pads or what ever you have. If you don't, you will end up having to replace more than just the pads. Your rotors will end up with grooves in them and need turned or replaced themselves.

Answer 4

If you don't have your parking brake on, your brake fluid level is low. This light does indicate engaged parking brake AND low fluid level. If you don't know how to check it, visit your mechanic first thing in the morning - your brakes can fail on you any moment.

Answer 5

put your foot underneath the emergency brake and lift upon it first of all and see if the light goes off. if that doesn't work go to the shop.

Answer 6

If they are squealing it usually means metal on metal and no brake pad exists.