1990 Toyota Corolla Squealing + brake warning light

TIANE

MEMBER
1990 TOYOTA COROLLA

1990 Toyota Corolla

I don't know much about car stuff. So I have no idea how bad this is or isn't. I have a 1990 Toyota Corolla. I don't drive much, so every few days (or at least once a week) I try to take my car out for a short drive. Today when I was backing out, when I braked and turned my wheels to go, it was squealing. I pulled back in, checked my tires and whatnot, everything looked normal. I pulled out again and the sound was gone. I drove as normal, stops, turns, etc. On my way back, stopped at a stop sign I noticed the brake warning light was on. The battery warning light was not on (I already learned my lesson about what it can mean when both of those are on. Heh). I checked my emergency parking brake thingy, that was not on. The light went off when driving.

I tested it hitting the brake to slow down to varying speeds, no light no sound no problem. But when I pulled back in and had my foot on the brake sitting still, again the light came on.

It's rained recently. Could the brakes just be wet or something? Or do I have to get it checked out? I really can't afford a car problem right now. I'm just kinda worried though. I mean I have to drive on major roads to get anywhere. I don't want to be slowing down for a red light at 65 mph and my brakes give out.

3 Replies

MMPRINCE4000

MECHANIC
8,549 POSTS

As long as the pedal is hard, is may be a parking brake switch, or a MC low fluid sensor.

Check each wheel for brake fluid leaking, check the MC and make sure it is full.

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Wednesday, September 30th, 2009 AT 7:17 AM

TIANE

MEMBER
1 POST

Thanks for the reply! Er, what is MC and how do I check it? I just went out to check for new puddles or leaks or drips, but I don't see anything.

Granted, I can take it in tomorrow. I'm just kinda nervous to go and do 65 mph and stop at traffic lights and such with this brake light blaring in my face. Makes me nervous, ya know? But the least I can do, is make each problem a learning experience so in time I'll get good with this kinda thing.