Brake warning light

[Pootus]

Hi all,

The red warning light for the handbrake is flicking on when driving in our mk1 Tuscan. If you very slightly lift the handbrake the light goes out but comes on again a few seconds later. Seems like something is loose or broken with the switch or wiring.

Before I strip out the centre console, has anyone seen anything similar?

Thanks

[EW486]

Have you checked the level in the brake fluid reservoir? Sounds like the level is just at minimum.

[pac1uk]

Check the brake fluid first, simple stuff first.

If the brake fluid level is OK then its the micro switch, this is bolted to the handbrake housing passenger side, it can come loose or the wire terminals get a bit loose. Easy to see and work on.

Easy job removing the center console, one screw under the ashtray just pull the ash tray out and one screw under the rear round air vent, just pull this out, it's attached to a Black hose.

The Aluminium handbrake lever grip is held on with one or two grub screws small Allen key required. Pull this off. Should be able to move the console to give access. might need to disconnect the wire plugs for heater and windows this will enable total removal of the console, can't remember now if I needed to do this do get access.

[Whitey]

Might be your clutch slave cylinder seals leaking as it's a combined brake and clutch reservoir. Look under the car for fluid dripping from the gearbox bell housing. If it's dripping, don't delay getting them replaced!

[Pootus]

Cool & thanks for the tips... I'll report what I find.