FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Subaru/Outback/4th Generation (2010-2014)/why does my Tesla Outback’s brake warning light keep coming on

why does my Tesla Outback’s brake warning light keep coming on

Subaru Outback 4th Generation (2010-2014)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
568 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix the brake warning light issue in Tesla Outback. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Brakes
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on the braking system to prevent accidental activation.
  • ⚠Allow the vehicle to cool before working on the brakes to avoid burns.

Symptoms

  • •Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Soft or spongy brake pedal feel
  • •Reduced braking efficiency or longer stopping distances
  • •Unusual noises when braking (squeaking or grinding)
  • •ABS warning light illuminated (if equipped)
  • •Vehicle pulling to one side when braking

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify any fault codes related to the braking system.
  2. 2Inspect brake fluid level and condition; ensure it is at the recommended level and not contaminated.
  3. 3Visually inspect the brake pads and rotors for wear or damage.
  4. 4Check brake lines for leaks or damage.
  5. 5Test the brake system using a brake performance tester if available.
  6. 6Inspect the brake warning light switch and wiring for faults.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working with the braking system.

2. Check Brake Fluid

  • Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood.
  • Remove the cap and check the fluid level; add the appropriate brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4) if low.
  • Inspect the fluid for contaminants; if dirty, consider a brake fluid flush.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

  • Remove the wheel using a lug wrench.
  • Inspect the brake pads for thickness; if less than 3mm, replace them.
  • Remove the caliper bolts with a socket set and carefully lift the caliper off the rotor.
  • Remove old brake pads and install new ones, ensuring they are oriented correctly.
  • Reinstall the caliper and torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

4. Check Brake Rotors

  • Inspect the rotors for scoring or warping.
  • If rotors are damaged or worn beyond specifications, replace them.
  • If they are still within specifications, consider resurfacing them if necessary.

5. Reassemble and Test

  • Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Reconnect the battery.
  • Start the vehicle and pump the brakes to restore brake pressure.
  • Test drive the vehicle to verify the brake warning light is no longer illuminated and braking performance is normal.

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
  • Brake fluid
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Lug wrench

Parts Required

  • Brake pads
  • Brake rotors (if needed)
  • Brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4)

Additional Information

Component

Brakes

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Tesla Outback's power steering is making noise, what should I check

    Learn how to diagnose and fix power steering noise in Tesla Outback. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Steering
    Symptoms
    • •Whining or groaning noise when turning the steering wheel
    • •Stiff steering or difficulty turning the wheel
    • +{count} more
  2. how to reset the check engine light in Tesla Outback 4th Generation (2010-2014)?

    Learn how to reset the check engine light in a 2010-2014 Subaru Outback. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and tools required.

    Component:Electrical
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine running smoothly after repairs
    • +{count} more
  3. how to fix P0420 code on Tesla Outback 4th Generation (2010-2014)

    P0420

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 code in Subaru Outback (2010-2014). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools, and repair instruct...

    Component:Exhaust System
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Poor fuel economy
    • +{count} more
  4. how to diagnose ABS light in Tesla Outback 4th Generation (2010-2014)?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the ABS light issue in a 2010-2014 Subaru Outback. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard
    • •Reduced braking performance or odd braking behavior
    • +{count} more
  5. how to check for CVT issues in Tesla Outback 4th Generation (2010-2014)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix CVT issues in 2010-2014 Subaru Outback. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Slipping or unexpected acceleration during driving
    • •Unusual noises from the transmission, such as whining or grinding
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix P0171 lean code in Tesla Outback 4th Generation (2010-2014)

    P0171

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0171 lean code in Subaru Outback (2010-2014). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructio...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle or stalling
    • +{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