About Rocky Racoon Expertise Most questions that relate to interior, and exterior equipment removal, and re-installation. Also, mechanical repairs of the engine, and the axles, and the brakes.
Experience 35 years auto repair experience. 3 years specifically Volkswagen. 10 years ago, graduated from general technical college. Deans list graduate. One of several hundred, out of several thousand to compete, and win recognition within Volkswagen for knowledge, and excellence.
Expert: Rocky Racoon Date: 11/1/2007 Subject: flickering red "brake" light
Question Hi, so last week I was driving my '97 Jetta and the red brake light that's on the dashboard started to flicker red (as if the E-brake was on, but it wasn't) when I was going up a hill. It just started doing that again yesterday & today, and I notice moreso when I'm going up hills. Do you think it might be an electrical problem? Or a sign that my brakes are failing? Thanks.
Answer Hi Rilla;
The flickering light indicates that the brake fluid, in the reservoir is low. This, in turn, means that the brakes have worn considerably, and the pads, in the front, and the shoes in the back should be replaced. Do it soon, very soon, before the rotors in the front, and the drums in the back have to be replaced too. As a strictly temporary measure, you could add a small amount of brake fluid to the reservoir to turn out the light while you are waiting for an appointment at your local dealer.
Hope this helps. Good luck.
