How to reset parking brake light

To reset the parking brake light on your vehicle, follow these steps depending on whether the issue is mechanical or electrical:

1. Check for Common Causes

• How To Reset Parking Brake Light: Parking Brake Not Fully Released: Ensure the parking brake lever or pedal is fully disengaged. Push it down or pull it up completely to ensure the mechanism is in the "off" position.
• Low Brake Fluid: Check the brake fluid reservoir under the hood. If the fluid is below the minimum mark, refill it with the appropriate DOT brake fluid and check for leaks.
• Worn Brake Pads: Excessively worn pads can lower the brake fluid level and trigger the light. Inspect and replace pads if necessary.

2. Perform a Manual Reset

1. Turn off the ignition and fully apply and release the parking brake several times.
2. Start the vehicle and check if the light goes off. This ensures the system recognizes the parking brake is disengaged.

3. Battery Reset (Soft Reset)

1. Turn off the vehicle and disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Wait 10–15 minutes to allow the system to reset.
3. Reconnect the terminal, restart the vehicle, and check the light.

4. Use an OBD-II Scanner (For Electric Parking Brake)

1. Connect the scanner to the OBD-II port under the dashboard.
2. Turn the ignition to the "ON" position (engine off).
3. Scan for parking brake or brake system error codes. Address any issues shown, then clear the codes using the scanner.
4. Restart the vehicle to confirm the light is off.

5. Check Electric Parking Brake (EPB) Systems

If your vehicle has an EPB, ensure there’s no obstruction preventing the brake from fully releasing. Follow the owner’s manual for calibration or use a scanner to reset the system.

6. Test Drive

After resetting the light, test the brakes to confirm everything functions properly. If the parking brake light comes back on, it could indicate a persistent issue.

7. Seek Professional Help

If none of the steps work, consult a mechanic. There may be issues with the brake sensors, wiring, or the parking brake mechanism that require professional diagnosis and repair.