What does the brake proportioning valve do?
Function and Purpose of the Proportioning Valve The proportioning valve typically connects the master cylinder to the rest of the braking system, but sometimes it is independent of the cylinder. This valve is necessary for optimizing front-to-rear bias, also referred to as brake balance.
Why does my brake light keep coming on?
This can cause the Check Engine or ABS system warning light to come on on the dash. In some cases, brake lights may stay on all the time, or come on randomly, without pressing the brake pedal. A brake light switch can be tested with a multimeter without removing it from a vehicle.
How do you test the brake light switch?
In some cars, the testing procedure involves testing the voltage at the brake light switch connector when the brake pedal is depressed and released. In other cars, the service manual recommends testing the switch continuity with the pedal depressed and released. If there is no voltage at the brake switch,…
What is the function of the brake light switch?
The brake light switch serves two major functions. First, it turns on the brake lights when a driver presses the brake pedal. Second, it sends the signal to the vehicle computer that brakes are applied. A car with a faulty brake light switch is UNSAFE to drive.
What to do if your brake proportioning valve is stuck?
Depress the brake pedal and note if you have a brake light on the dashboard. If your brake system has not been previously worked on or suffered no brake leaks from the wheel cylinders, calipers or master cylinder, chances are the brake proportioning valve is stuck in one position, tripping the brake dash light.
What does it mean when your brake light is on?
When you are parked in a safe place, press on the brake pedal as hard as you can. If the pedal slowly sinks to the floor, it indicates you either have air in the brake system or the fluid is leaking out. If the pedal holds steady, you probably don’t have a leak and can move on to further steps below.
How does the brake proportioning valve work on a car?
Once you release the brake pedal, a spring pushes the piston that’s blocking the valve to one side, allowing hydraulic fluid to pass through the front and rear brakes equally. The brake proportioning valve only works during harsh braking conditions when hydraulic pressure exceeds the minimum level or the “split point.”
Where to find the brake light warning switch?
Wiggle the brake light warning switch wire on the top of the proportioning valve, making sure it has a tight, clean connection. Locate the brake line on the valve that leads to the rear brakes, as well as the two single lines that lead to the left and right front brake calipers.
What happens when you release the brake pedal?
Releasing the brake pedal relieves line pressure and the caliper piston stops pressing on the brake pads so you can continue driving. The Brake Warning Light in your vehicle monitors the parking brake mechanism, the brake fluid in the reservoir, and any loss in pressure in the proportioning valve switch.