FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Golf/MK8.5 (2024-Present)/my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) brake light is on but brakes are fine, what's wrong

my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) brake light is on but brakes are fine, what's wrong

Volkswagen Golf MK8.5 (2024-Present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium1-2 hours
3 min read
547 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the brake light issue on your Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Brakes
Repair Time
1-2 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Use caution when working near brake fluid, as it can damage paint and other surfaces.

Symptoms

  • •Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Possible ABS warning light illuminated
  • •No noticeable changes in brake performance
  • •Brake fluid level may be low (but not necessarily)
  • •Brake pedal feel remains normal

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle for any error codes using an OBD-II scanner.
  2. 2Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for fluid level and condition.
  3. 3Check the brake light switch located near the brake pedal for proper function.
  4. 4Inspect the ABS module and wiring for any visible damage or corrosion.
  5. 5Test the brake light bulbs to ensure they are functioning correctly.
  6. 6Review any recent maintenance or repairs that could have affected the brake system.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the vehicle battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.

2. Inspect Brake Light Switch

  • Locate the brake light switch behind the brake pedal.
  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the switch by unscrewing or unclipping it from its mount.
    • Use a multimeter to check for continuity when the brake pedal is pressed.
    • If the switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.
  • Tools Required: Screwdriver, multimeter

3. Check Brake Fluid Level

  • Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood.
  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the cap and check the fluid level against the markings on the reservoir.
    • If low, top off with the appropriate brake fluid (usually DOT 4) and check for leaks in the system.
  • Tools Required: Funnel, brake fluid

4. Inspect ABS Module and Wiring

  • Locate the ABS module, typically near the brake master cylinder.
  • Sub-steps:
    • Visually inspect the wiring harness for signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
    • Clean any corrosion found on connectors and ensure tight connections.
  • Tools Required: Wire brush, dielectric grease

5. Replace Faulty Bulbs

  • Access the rear light assembly where the brake light bulbs are housed.
  • Sub-steps:
    • Remove the assembly or cover to gain access to the bulbs.
    • Test each bulb for continuity; replace any that are burnt out.
  • Tools Required: Screwdriver

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Multimeter
  • Screwdriver
  • Wire brush
  • Funnel

Parts Required

  • Brake light switch (if faulty)
  • Brake fluid (DOT 4)
  • Brake light bulbs (if burnt out)

Additional Information

Component

Brakes

Repair Time

1-2 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. what does the ABS light mean on my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the ABS light issue on your Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and rep...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Reduced braking performance or instability during braking
    • +{count} more
  2. why is my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) infotainment screen freezing up

    Learn how to diagnose and fix infotainment screen freezing issues in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures an...

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Infotainment system screen becomes unresponsive
    • •Audio playback stops or stutters
    • +{count} more
  3. how to check the alternator on my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019)

    Learn how to check the alternator on your 2015-2019 Volkswagen Golf MK7. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Dimming or flickering headlights
    • +{count} more
  4. why does my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) have a burning smell

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a burning smell in your Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair ...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Burning odor emitting from the engine compartment
    • •Smoke visible from under the hood
    • +{count} more
  5. why is my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) using too much fuel

    Learn how to diagnose and fix excessive fuel consumption in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair ...

    Component:Fuel System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased fuel economy (lower miles per gallon)
    • +{count} more
  6. my Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019) is overheating what could be wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix overheating issues in Volkswagen Golf MK7 (2015-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair in...

    Component:Cooling System
    Symptoms
    • •Temperature gauge reading higher than normal
    • •Coolant warning light illuminated
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation