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Topic: 2004 E-450 parking brake light stuck on (Read 261 times) previous topic - next topic
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2004 E-450 parking brake light stuck on
This morning when I released the parking brake, the red BRAKE light in the instrument cluster remained on.  As far as I can tell, the parking brake really released.  I can drive very slowly with my foot off the gas pedal, push the parking brake pedal, and the motorhome stops.  If I release the parking brake, the motorhome starts moving very slowly forward.

During a drive, the Scangauge II showed a maximum transmission fluid temperature of 191F.  It showed instantaneous mileage readings that seemed entirely typical.  (I have no idea if a stuck parking brake would cause a high transmission fluid temperature.)

Fortunately, there's no warning chime.

What actually controls the light?  Is there a switch?  Where?  How urgent is this problem?

 
Re: 2004 E-450 parking brake light stuck on
Reply #1 –
Hi Howard;  If the parking brake pedal is all the way up (off) the light should go off.  But the engine computer can keep the light on for a number of reasons.  Check that there is actually brake fluid is the reservoir. You can see the darker fluid inside the plastic reservoir.  In your E450, there is a separate 'parking' brake for the driveline mounted at the back of the transmission.  You've tested that and it appears to work properly.  If the ABS sensor is ok (orange) light on the dash (off) next to the brake light, then I would check the fluid level for the service brakes.   RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: 2004 E-450 parking brake light stuck on
Reply #2 –
Quote from: RonB  - 
check the fluid level for the service brakes.
That was it.  Thanks!  I put in more brake fluid and the light went off.  I checked the service brake fluid level the day before departure and it was fine.  I'll watch the level and see what happens.
Re: 2004 E-450 parking brake light stuck on
Reply #3 –
Hi Howard;  You might have a leak. Check the fittings around the master brake cylinder, and the wheel cylinder calipers for obvious leaks.  If you had a vacuum booster like my E350, it can leak into the vacuum without a visible drip, but your E450 has a hydraulic boost, so not a leak there.  RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: 2004 E-450 parking brake light stuck on
Reply #4 –
It turned out it was a leaking rear brake line, which has now been replaced.
Re: 2004 E-450 parking brake light stuck on
Reply #5 –
Thanks for that follow up Howard.   Any discernable cause?  Rust, rock chip, flex area or bend?   RonB.
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB