The "brake" light in the dash of my '04 V6 is lit even though my parking brake is not engaged. I rarely use my parking brake and when it first came on, I had not engaged my parking brake. Is this an indicator light (i.e. indicating brake pads are low, etc.) or a faulty switch? If it's the switch, where is that located?

I've STFA and haven't been able to find an answer.

Thanks in advance.

If the BRAKE light is lit on the dash it's telling you something is wrong. It could be something simple like the switch on the parking brake is not disengaging causing it to stay lit... OR it could be much more serious such as a loss of pressure in the brake system. You haven't had any other lights come on like the ABS or anything else? How do your brakes feel when stopping.... any noises, low pressure, abnormal in anyway? You may need to bring the car in soon to have it checked. I personally would be EXTREMELY careful, since you are not sure what you are dealing with yet.... the last thing you need is complete brake failure while driving.

Brakes feel fine and I've had no other lights come on. If it's a switch issue, where is the switch located?

Have you checked the brake fluid level ??

If thats OK then I'd take it somewhere and have it scanned with an ABS capable scan tool.

the brake switch is located just above the brake pedal, you'll have to get under the dash.. look to see if it is adjusted properly. If it is, then your parking brake switch may be stuck closed.

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(1)TCC/Brake Switch(2)Dash Harness(3)Stop Lamp Switch(4)Brake Pedal

I've noticed that when I brake firmly, the light will go out, and then come back on. I checked the brake fluid level and it's right at the "min" mark, perhaps it does need some more brake fluid as xero suggested? Would this make sense?

Thanks for everyone's help.

I've noticed that when I brake firmly, the light will go out, and then come back on. I checked the brake fluid level and it's right at the "min" mark, perhaps it does need some more brake fluid as xero suggested? Would this make sense?

Thanks for everyone's help.

Yes that would make perfect sense. I would however consider that you may need new brake pads since the fluid is low. Normally brake fluid does not go low unless you have a leak or you need new brake pads.

That was it. Added some brake fluid and the light has gone out. I'll also check the pads this weekend to make sure they're not low.

Thanks for the help, all.

Yeah, fluid level would have been the first thing to check.