Brake warning (BRAKE)

Questions about the Brake warning (BRAKE) symbol

What does the Brake warning (BRAKE) symbol mean on BMW cars?

Orange or red: a fault or hazard warning that should be taken seriously; the braking system needs to be inspected as soon as possible.

What does the Brake warning (BRAKE) symbol mean on Audi cars?

On European Audis the word BRAKE warns of a problem with the basic brake system. If the parking brake is released, stop as soon as it is safe and contact a workshop; driving on could be dangerous.

What does the Brake warning (BRAKE) symbol mean on Volvo cars?

In red, the BRAKE text means Volvo has detected a fault in the brake system. Act immediately and contact an authorised Volvo workshop.

What does the Brake warning (BRAKE) symbol mean on MINI cars?

Brake pads are worn or there is a fault in the brake system. Braking assistance may not work and higher pedal force may be needed. Have the system checked immediately.

What does the Brake warning (BRAKE) symbol mean on Jeep cars?

Monitors brake functions: the parking brake is applied, the brake fluid level is low, or the ABS/ESC system has detected a brake hydraulic or booster fault. Together with the ABS light it indicates an electronic brake force distribution failure that needs immediate repair. It may flash momentarily in sharp cornering. Driving with the light on is dangerous: part of the brake system may have failed; have it checked immediately.

Does the Brake warning (BRAKE) symbol mean the same on every appliance?

No. On BMW cars it means: Brake system fault. On Audi cars it means: Brake system fault (BRAKE). On Volvo cars it means: Brake system fault (red). On MINI cars it means: Brake system. On Jeep cars it means: Brake system warning.

What does the Brake warning (BRAKE) symbol look like?

Red word BRAKE. It is also called “BRAKE” and “brake system warning”.

Checked against the source · Nov 12, 2026 · How we verify

• 120 km/h warning light (amber)Dashboard lights
• 2H indicator (white)Dashboard lights
• 4H four-wheel drive indicator (amber)Dashboard lights
• ABS text (amber)Dashboard lights
• ABS warningDashboard lights
• ACC adapting to road courseDashboard lights
• ACC braking insufficientDashboard lights
• ACC junction adaptationDashboard lights

Guides that mention it

• Dashboard Warning Lights: What the Colors and Symbols Mean →
• BMW Dashboard Symbols Explained: Warning Lights and Colors →
• Audi Dashboard Symbols: What Each Warning Light Means →