Hey guys whats up, i already used the magical search bar, but i have a more specific question. I have my vdc off/slip lights on, and i've done my research and come to the conclusion...that it's either brake fluid, low pads, or something about a tranny issue i believe? How can i pinpoint the issue ? I would just have to run through the list and hope it's the cheapest solution? And it's low brake fluid, should I just take it to a dealer and have them change it ? or can i do it myself?

 

If it's low brake fluid... add some. It could be a wheel speed sensor, or many other things. Year model and miles would help. Ultimately if you don't get it to turn off, you'll need to read your codes. Then research codes to find the issue. Auto zone etc... may read your codes for free.

 

sorry, i forgot to add it's a 08 g37s with 72,000 miles. It was on for a bit, but when i get home and turned the car off and started it again the lights came off. So i'm thinking it's the pads or fluid.

 

Always start with easiest/cheapest and then go to the harder stuff. Pop the hood and open the brake fluid hatch. Clean off the cap of the brake fluid reservoir (important to keep it clean, don't let debris or dirt fall in there) and check the level. If it's below the full mark, buy a bottle of any DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid and top it off to the full mark, being careful not to spill any because it is corrosive to paint. Close everything back, drive around for a bit and see if that makes it go away. If not, take it to a brake shop, independent mechanic, or if you have to the dealership and have them check your brakes. This should be free, if anyone tries to charge you for it, go somewhere else. They should tell you in millimeters how much friction materials your pads have on each corner. If it's below 3 or 4 mm, have them replaced. I'm guessing it's not a job you're familiar with so if you don't want to buy the tools and learn how to DIY, let someone do it for you.

 

If under warranty, bring it to the dealer. I am assuming you are not under warranty though, and in that case, you have identified the potential causes, now perform them in the order of most probable, or least cost. Check you brake fluid under the hood. In my experience if the level is anything lower than MAXIMUM, it will cause issues. After my BBK install, the level was between the min and max levels and I was having an issue with the brake light illuminating.

 

I wouldn't need to bleed the brakes though? or do i just add more brake fluid ?LMAO i'm the worst with brake fluid, i'd def changed my brakes on my lexus, and accord before. So that's not the issue I just hear the brake fluid is really harmful and if not done right it can really cause damage.

 

It eats paint. If you wipe it off immediately and wash the area you'll be OK.

Yes, if you do the brake job yourself you'll bleed them. If you just need to top it off, that's all you need. But it's a sign that you'll need to do a brake job sooner rather than later.

 

Adding brake fluid, you won't need to bleed your brakes...Just like BB said to take the cap off and make sure NO debris falls in and fill up...I don't recall which type and it says in the owners manual and go by the nearest auto part store and fill appropriately..

As if the Brake pads need to be changed out.. its not really a hard job, I've done mine... but still go by and find out to see how much you have left and start at the small points first to save some money before looking into other options...75k isn't that much but who knows also when the last pads were changed out...JMO

 

Thanks guy, i'm gonna check the brake fluid level now, that there's daylight outside. I'll let you guys know what the deal is.

 

So mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 is OK? He doesn't need to match up with what he has now right?

 

Most DOT 4 fluids are compatible with DOT 3.

 

What DOT 4 fluid isn't compatible with DOT 3?

 

ALL Dot 4s are compatible with Dot 3. At least in the US.

 

I just wanted to say thanks to the OP for at least doing some searching and coming up with some basic ideas and legitimate questions about how to deal with his issue. Kind of sad that that it is even notable, but anymore it seems too many folks just throw up their hands and ask/expect to be spoon fed from the get-go. Anyway, props to the OP.

btw, my bet is on the brake fluid fixing it

 

*1 up top ^ and OP