A red exclamation mark in a circle keeps flashing on my dashboard - why????

Question

I have a 2003 basic Nissan Micra. The exclammation mark (!) is the symbol for my handbrake, yet it keeps flashing on when I slow down, go round corners or go over a bump. I've tried putting oil in, but light still flashes. Please help!!

Answer 1

dont panic! i'll bet its just low on brake fluid . the pads have worn down alittle and now the brake fluid resovoir needs topping up.
if after this the brake fluid level continues to drop then you probably need a new rear wheel cylinder(a sign of this will be an oily residue coming out from the back wheel/s).in which case just visit a local recommended garage.
the only other reasons are worn out brake pads or the wire from the handbrake is earthing out somwhere.
still none of the above should cost you very much to have repaired

Answer 2

If you had to put in brake fluid it suggests that you are loosing it. Under normal circumstances you should never have to top up your brake fluid between annual services.
Check it again and if you have to put more in to get it to the correct level mark then you have a leak which must be found and fixed.

If you are not loosing fluid then it is likely that your brake linings are wearing down. Some cars have sensors to detect when the friction material on the brake shoes or pads is reaching its minimum thickness. This may be described in the car's handbook.

In either case you cannot ignore the warning light. Red warning lights indicate that the car has a serious fault that may be safety related. You must get it sorted. Not 'soon' but 'now'. It could save your life, or someone else's.

Answer 3

The warning lights in your car are in 3 colours: Green - just for information - eg you have your lights on, indicators are flashing etc Yellow - warning - you need to do something but not necessarily right now - eg low fuel, low oil, low screen wash, engine management issue Red - you have a serious problem that is dangerous or may cause serious damage to the car so STOP THE CAR NOW - eg your brakes have a problem, you have no oil pressure

Answer 4

This symbol is not only for your handbrake.
It also lights up if there are any other problems with your braking system.
You may have a faulty handbrake switch, or you may have faulty brakes, or low brake fluid level.
Get the car checked out. A red light means "STOP - Do not drive until repaired".

Answer 5

Iveco Warning Lights

Answer 6

Your first action should be to check the brake fluid level. Note that this is different from oil, and only brake fluid, of the type described in your handbook, should be used to top it up.

If the level keeps dropping, take it to a garage, and have them check for leaks.

Other reasons for this light could be worn brake pads, faulty electrical wiring or sensor, or problem with ABS (if you have it).

This should be sorted out immediately, as it is a safety critical system.

Answer 7

Your front brake pads have worn as they displace brake fluid the low brake fluid light turns on as time to inspect the brakes just add enough fluid to turn out the light after making sure the front brake pads will go a little longer. Same light as the hand brake.

Answer 8

Bloody `ell, Have you thought that maybe it is a warning light concerning the brakes. When the brake pads wear down, a warning light comes on telling you that your brake pads need replacing, if you choose to ignore the warning you will land up with no brakes.
Take it in for a brake check.

Answer 9

Either you are driving with the handbrake still slightly on, or you have a problem with your brakes.

Answer 10

Get your brakes checked! When the light flashes it could mean a serious problem, check your owners manual it will tell you the same thing.