What does it mean if your emergency brake light stays on and I can still drive?

Answer 1

Often the emergency brake cable itself sticks. (The cable within the cable sheaf) therby not alowing the pedal to return to the up (Released position) and not allowing the brake shoe to return (retract) from the brake drum. This is caused by rush on cable, bent cables, or weak or missing return spring on the pedal itself under the dash. Try lifting up on that foot lever with your hands to pull the cable back up and see if that light goes out. If so you need that cable from pedal to brake itself lubed or replaced. Also, somitimes, a badly worn brake shoe will get stuck behind the brake backing plate in the rear wheel and prevent it from releasing. This requires the wheel to be removed to release the stuck emer brake. Often the emergency brake cable itself sticks. (The cable within the cable sheaf) therby not alowing the pedal to return to the up (Released position) and not allowing the brake shoe to return (retract) from the brake drum. This is caused by rush on cable, bent cables, or weak or missing return spring on the pedal itself under the dash. Try lifting up on that foot lever with your hands to pull the cable back up and see if that light goes out. If so you need that cable from pedal to brake itself lubed or replaced. Also, somitimes, a badly worn brake shoe will get stuck behind the brake backing plate in the rear wheel and prevent it from releasing. This requires the wheel to be removed to release the stuck emer brake.