2000 T&C brake idiot light

Anyone have this problem? When I make a sharp (90 degree or more) left turn, my emergency brake idiot light comes on. The brake is totally off and this still happens nearly 100% of the time. We're at 90K miles and I hate to start sinking lots of $$ into this vehicle. Any suggestions? The brakes work fine and are about 2 years old, e brake seemingly works (although oops - once I drove 2 miles with it on - the light was coming on way before that time though LOL), and brand new tires. There's some noise from the front end - all T&C and Voyagers seem to have that strange high pitched sound that changes when you put it into Park.

Thanks for any suggestions....
Cheryl in CA

These wonderful vans of ours are equipped with a float level in the master cylinder, which is designed to turn on the "Brake" warning light when the master cylinder runs low on brake fluid. The "Brake" warning light is the same light that comes on when you set the parking brake.

Have you ever noticed how the coffee in your coffee cup will move around as you drive your car? The brake fluid in your master cylinder does the same thing. When the van is sitting still, the fluid level is constant throughout the master cylinder. But, when you make hard corners, sudden stops, or rapid acceleration, the fluid will rush to the side opposite of the direction of acceleration, causing the float to drop and turning on the "Brake" light. Once the van settles at either a dead stop or cruising speed, the brake fluid level will stablize and turn off the light.

Now, the disc brake systems are designed in such a manner that when the brake pads are new, the brake fluid level in the master cylinder should be set at the maximum line. As the pads wear, brake fluid level drops proportionally to the brake pad wear, and when the pads are worn to the point that replacement is needed, the "Brake" light will come and stay on. This is how it is suppose to work in the ideal world.

It sounds to me that the brake fluid level in your master cylinder is below the "Max" line, but still above the "Min" line. I would check the thickness of the disc brake pads to determine how worn they are and also check for leaks in the brake system. Leaking or worn parts should be replaced. When new pads are installed, make sure the brake fluid level is topped off in the master cylinder. If the brake system appears good, I would add a little brake fluid to the master cylinder to stop the flickering of the light.

Thanks for the input. I would think my brake pads are worn after 2 years, but hubby's going to try and check them today, as well as check the fluid. Sigh. This is our first and last Chrysler product and we love everything from the steering wheel back. I can't say the same for mechanical stuff...

Just for reference in case somebody else has the same problem, my husband added half of a large jug of brake fluid today and the problem is gone. We were way, way low. Thanks again for the tip, KManiac. :o)