Flashing brake light and beeping

**rudtf** · 11-03-2010 08:43 PM

usually happens early mornings, when i start the car, and when i hit bumps. The e-brake light will flash along with a beeping noise... then go away. Comes on/off a few times each time i drive and it's really annoying. I'm just out of warranty and I'd like to see if i can fix this myself. I did a quick search and read that i might be low on brake fluid. if so, what brake fluid do i get and where is the reservoir? Could it be something else and how do i fix it. thanks in advance for the help guys.

**jkiwacz** · 11-03-2010 09:23 PM

The brake fluid reservoir is close to the firewall with a yellow cap, you can purchase brake fluid from the dealer it is really not that expensive. The parking brake switch could also be on its way out, but I think your on the right track with the fluid, you may also want to consider inspecting the brake pads just to make sure they are not getting low.

**makav3li** · 11-03-2010 09:39 PM

We have a diff brake pad indicator, it kind of looks like this (O). But ya brake fluid should do the trick, but it could be the sensor, but chances are its just a little low.

**italia8287** · 11-04-2010 08:47 AM

i think for those who dont have a certain package, we dont get the (O) brake wear indicator. when my pads where shot, the e-brake light kept lighting up and would beep. so i second checking your pads first, then top off your fluid.

**jkiwacz** · 11-04-2010 12:42 PM

The (o) is for the front brake pads, there is no warning for the rear pads. As the pads get thinner, this will cause the fluid level to drop and can cause the red "brake" indicator to come on and flash, especially when cold. As temp increases and the fluid expands it usually is then high enought to turn off the indicator. It may be just be the fluid, but it is def worth it just to check the pads , just in case.

**AudiTFSI3o3** · 11-04-2010 01:44 PM

fluid = dot 4

**clemsongt** · 11-04-2010 02:51 PM

Originally Posted by AudiTFSI3o3

fluid = dot 4

And can be had at any auto parts store.

**Matt@EuropaParts** · 11-04-2010 03:14 PM

Add some brake fluid and it should go away (http://www.europaparts.com/genuine-d...b000750m3.html)

**rudtf** · 11-04-2010 06:51 PM

ok thanks guys. i'll do the brake fluid first to see if that helps. I don't get a (o) signal... just brake light flashing. man, i haven't been on this site as much recently because of my recent golf obsession and forgot how helpful this place is.

So... any brand brake fluid from the auto store that says dot 4 on it. any brands in particular better than others? then find the yellow reservoir by the firewall and top off.

**Quattro** · 11-04-2010 07:04 PM

go to dealer and get some fluid. you can get any dot 4....

if you have extra money, since you playing golf I know you do....do a brake flush and add some higher performance fluid.

**rudtf** · 11-05-2010 10:50 PM

that was a quick $2 fix to a nuisance i dealt with for the past few days.

yeah golf can get pricey with tee times and ho'ing clubs. prob the reason i don't have the extra money and will hold off on brake flush until it's absolutely necessary.

thanks again for the tip guys.