Ford Focus MK1 - Handbrake Light

That Guy · 23 Jun 2015 at 22:18

Just purchased a Ford Focus MK1 on a 2003 Plate, mileage is low for its age at just 53k. Had it for a few weeks and now while driving the handbrake light randomly comes on.

After a bit of research I have found possible causes online:

- Brake Fluid Needs Topping Up.
- Handbrake Switch Loose.
- Brake Pads need Replacing.
- Possible Brake Fluid Leak, from near Clutch Pedal.
- Something involving Master Cylinder inside Clutch Leaking.

I have checked handbrake switch and that is not the issue as it works fine before you start the engine. I have topped up the fluid to just below the max sign and interestingly enough the light comes on more since doing that.

The car went straight through an MOT the other day and they said the brakes don't need changing, there is also no obvious signs of a leak anywhere.

A friend also plugged it into his special machine and the car isn't reporting any error codes.

Anyone know anything else to try? All suggestions welcome at this stage!

Calm · 24 Jun 2015 at 00:41

Have you checked the shoes/pads?

If the brakes work they'll pass an MOT, doesn't necessarily mean they're not worn.

Clarkey · 24 Jun 2015 at 00:50

If they are worn it would be an advisory at least. Sounds like a dicky level sensor from the description, you checked the connection and that the float is free?

adam cool dude · 24 Jun 2015 at 00:57

Check the reservoir to check if it is low. If not then you have a problem with a sensor. If it is low top it up and drive around for a few weeks to see if it drops much. If it doesn't then your not leaking. Then most likely it is pads getting low.

Calm · 24 Jun 2015 at 02:09

Clarkey said:
If they are worn it would be an advisory at least.

Ideally that would always be true (especially considering the ****y little things i often get failed on), experience has taught me otherwise though.

That Guy · 26 Jun 2015 at 00:50

Going to check behind the instrument panel to see if the circuit board has any rust on. Apparently it's a common issue for random dash lights to come on with the 2003 focus due to rust on the circuit board caused by condensation behind the speedo etc.

Will report back

That Guy · 2 Jul 2015 at 22:11

Well thought I had fixed the issue, I wiggled the float up and down in the brake fluid reservoir and for the next journey had no lights at all.

Sadly did not last, tonight the red brake light was on from when I started to drive. The about half way through the journey it went out and the ABS light started flashing at random intervals.

Brake fluid is at max line, discs and pads all seem good.

Does this help anyone with ideas?