Hi,

I live in upstate NY so it has been pretty darn cold lately! Last week, my emergency/parking brake light came on. However, the break is not engaged. And when I drive I don't smell any break "burning" smell. Anyone know what it could be? I read it could be the cold and somehow it froze a senor or something. But it has been warm the last 2 days, and any frozen senor should be unfrozen no?

Thanks

 

That light doubles as a notification that your brake fluid is low. Pop the hood and check the reservoir.

 

If the light eventually goes off after driving a little, then this could be the issue...

http://ww2.justanswer.com/uploads/lo...rake_float.pdf

 

It stays on the whole time...

This is a 1994 honda civic LX. Also anyone know where there is a good picture of what is under the hood and labels? I am a car newbie

 

This is the fluid reservoir, on top of the master cylinder. The little one next to it is for the clutch if yours is a 5 speed.

 

The master cylinder is directly in front of the brake pedal. The other little one for the clutch is directly in front of the clutch pedal (if equipped). So when you open the hood they will be at the back of the space on the driver's side.

The plastic is somewhat see-through but for a beginner it's best to take the cap off and look directly inside to be sure of how much fluid you have. Be very careful not to get any dirt, water, oil, or any substance other than brake fluid into there. Foreign materials will ruin your braking system.