FIAT Punto II - Handbrake warning light on whilst moving

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Fri 9 Apr 2010 22:26
FIAT Punto II - Handbrake warning light on whilst moving - adampbrown

The handbrake warning light on my 2001 Punto intermittantly comes one whilst driving. This tends to happen particularly whilst going up or down hills, but can come on randomly whilst in motion.

I'm confident that the handbrake is not actually being applied, so I'm assuming this to be electrical issue. I would appreciate it if anybody could offer any advice.

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Fri 9 Apr 2010 23:33
FIAT Punto II - Handbrake warning light on whilst moving - focusman

hi

first thing check the brake fluid level. if low top up to the correct level and check for leaks.maybe brake pads are worn low and are down to the sensor but not sure if punto has the brake pad warning sensors. it maybe the handbrake switch which is usually mounted at the rear end of the handbrake.

check these things out as soon as possible don't leave it, as you may find if it is a leak you may suddenly have no brakes.

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Sat 10 Apr 2010 07:38
FIAT Punto II - Handbrake warning light on whilst moving - oilrag

Agree, it`s likely the brake fluid - if it comes on going up and down hills. Mk2 & Mk2b don`t have pad sensors.

If you have trouble filling it up to the correct level - there *may* be an internal `screen` - a sort of fine mesh in the filler `neck` of the fluid container - that sometimes makes it difficult to get the fluid in due to air lock. Just persist or lift it up slightly while still pouring the new fluid through it.

Keep an eye on the level afterwards, in case there is a slight leak - you could look at the brake back plates and if the level drops again, get someone to look at the rear wheel cylinders - (in particular) which are, generally speaking, the most frequent cause of a leak.

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