Warning System Normal Operation

When the ignition is first turned from OFF to RUN, the BRAKE warning lamp will flash on for a brief period of time and then turn off. This will be followed by a full Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) segment check which lasts for approximately 2 seconds. The BRAKE lamp will remain illuminated as a part of this segment check. The BRAKE lamp should not be on with the ignition in the START position. This process will be repeated when the ignition switch is moved from START to RUN.

If the car has not been started for several hours (i.e., after sitting overnight), the BRAKE warning lamp may remain on for up to 30 seconds after turning the ignition on or starting the car. At the same time, the ANTI-LOCK DISABLED message and the TRACTION DISABLED message may be displayed. The BRAKE lamp and both messages should both remain on for no longer than 30 seconds. This situation may be caused by normal pressure leakdown in the hydraulic accumulator. The ABS pump must recharge the hydraulic accumulator to its normal operating pressure and the lamp and message may be on until recharging is completed.

The BRAKE lamp and both messages should both remain off at all other times. The LOW BRAKE FLUID message is displayed only at key-on if low fluid is detected. Once the system has reached its proper operating pressure and no errors have been detected by the EBCM or BCM the ANTI-LOCK OK and TRACTION OK messages should appear.