1997 Toyota Avalon Brake light comes on

[dano03]

I have a 1997 Toyota Avalon with 85,000 miles and the Brake Light comes on. When I come to a stop it goes off, When I accelerate it only comes back on when I back off on the gas. If I accelerate again it goes off until I back off on the gas. It then stays on until I stop again ???. The emergency brake is not on. Does it have to do with a vaccum sensor ? Anyone have a clue as to what could be the problem? Any advice would be great. Also any recommendations on where to take it besides the dealership would be helpful.

Thanks!!!
Dan

[krazibimmer]

have you check your brake fluid? brake fluid could be low. it also could be the sensor inside the master cylinder is sticking or your brake pad is worn out and need to be replace very soon.

[dano03]

I had a local shop look at the brake pads and fluid, they say ok. It just seems odd that it does not happen when I accelerate or at a stop, is there a vaccum or some other sensor that would cause this to happen ?
Thanks,
Dan

[resmo]

Add a little fluid, it may not look low but there is a sensor that will cause the light to come on when the car is moving. A little fluid will cure that.

[RIP]

The "power" in power brakes comes from your power brake booster. It uses manifold vacuum and atmospheric pressure to "boost" the pressure you apply with your foot. It's directly in front of the driver in the engine compartment. The brake master cylinder is attached to it. It's round and about 8-10 inches in diameter. Check for a vacuum line and make sure it's secure.

The only way I know how to test the booster is to let the car idle for a minute then shut it off. You then should be able to pump the brakes two - three times before they fade.

I've always found non-chain shops do the best work. The dealer is the last resort. Check your yellow pages or online.

A little back ground info: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/power-brake1.htm