On my new 4runner, a 2000 v6 with ABS, I've noticed that the 'brake' light, in the cluster that normally indicates that the ebrake is on, lights up every once in a while, for mere seconds at the max, but no flickering.

At first I noticed it during braking, and assumed a faulty/unintentional ground, but then yesterday noticed it came on when the wheels spun on wet pavement. No motion/force on the vehicle made me think again.

Is this any sort of a traction indicator or should I be looking just to fix the ebrake wire?

 

check your brake fluid first - there is a low brake fluid switch on most toyotas that turns on that light..makes sense when you are braking the fluid shifts away from the switch...

 

Low brake fluid is most likely the culprit

 

Low brake fluid also usually indicates worn pads and shoes, as they are worn to the point of allowing all the fluid into the braking system. Do not just simply add fluid. Check or have your brakes checked BEFORE adding fluid. Oil change shops will not top off brake fluid for that reason. Low fluid can be an indicator of worn brakes.

 

thanks all for the info - I checked the brake fluid level and its about an 1/8th of an inch from the minline. It could definitely use a bit more fluid, but I'm going to run it up to Les Schwab tomorrow for a free brake inspection... I'll post the results after.