1980 300cd Break system warning light flashes intermittently when break pedal is applied. Not everytime breaks are applied and doesn't remain illuminated. Break fluid checked okay. Questions: what does the warning light indicate? How is it actuated or what is the signalling mechanism? Could it indicate more than one problem? Is it okay to drive the car until it can be serviced?
Thanks in advance. John

 

There are two Brake warning lights. A red one, indicating loss of Brake fluid. If this light comes on than it requires IMMEDIATE attention.

One caveat to the above statement. The red brake warning light also indicates that the parking brake has been applied. If it flashes, and you ARE NOT missing any brake fluid, than perhaps the parking brake switch is defective, or the parking break has not been fully released. Try pulling the parking brake pedal back with your hand, and see if the light turns off

There is also a yellow brake warning light. When the yellow warning light comes on, or flashes when you apply the brakes, it indicates that the front brake pads are worn-out,. and should be replaced very shortly. If you keep driving like that you will ruin your disk rotors in no time.

Phil

 

Pberku
Thank you for the response. John