Brakes - Brake Indicator Comes ON/Goes OFF

03-078

October 28, 2003

Applies To:
1996-00 Civic - ALL
1997-01 CR-V-ALL
1997-01 Prelude - ALL
*1998-02 Accord - ALL*

Brake System Indicator Comes On and Goes Off

(Supersedes 03-078, dated October 17, 2003)

Updated information is shown with asterisks.

SYMPTOM

The brake system indicator comes on after a cold start, then goes off after a few minutes of driving.

PROBABLE CAUSE

The master cylinder reservoir filter is not allowing the cap to vent properly, causing the fluid level in the filter to change.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

Replace the master cylinder reservoir filter.

PARTS INFORMATION

Master Cylinder Reservoir Filter:
P/N 46666-S04-J02, H/C 7602899

Float:
P/N 46662-S84-999, H/C 5896766





WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION

In warranty: The normal warranty applies.

Failed Part: P/N 46666-S04-J02
H/C 7602899

Defect Code: 05401

Symptom Code: 03205

Skill Level: Repair Technician

Out of warranty:
Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Parts and Service Manager or your Zone Office. You must request consideration, and get a decision, before starting work.

DIAGNOSIS

1. Make sure the brake master cylinder fluid is at its proper level.

2. Release the parking brake.

3. Check the movement of the float in the reservoir:

^ If the float moves up and down freely, go to step 4.

^ If the float does not move freely, replace the cap and recheck the symptom.

4. Check that the float does float in brake fluid:

^ If it floats, go to step 5.

^ If it sinks, replace the float and recheck the symptom.

5. Check for continuity between the terminals of the cap. You should find no continuity when the float is up, and continuity when the float is down.

^ If continuity is correct, go to REPAIR PROCEDURE.

^ If continuity is not correct, replace the cap and recheck the symptom.

REPAIR PROCEDURE

1. Remove the brake master cylinder cap.





2. Remove and discard the old filter.

3. Install the new filter in the master cylinder.

4. Reinstall the brake master cylinder cap.

5. Check that the brake system indicator is off.





Disclaimer