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Why is there a brake system problem in my Honda Civic?

I just tried to start my Honda Civic and was met with a lit-up brake system problem alert light on the dash. Whatever is causing the problem is stopping me from starting my car, which is an obvious issue—so what is happening?

avatar
Abbey Orzech · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Seeing a brake system problem in a
Honda Civic
is not particularly uncommon, and is usually triggered by a stuck electronic parking brake. You’ll find a parking brake button or switch on your Civic’s center console, so check there first to see if there is any debris or dirt buildup which could cause the button’s malfunction.
If everything with the parking brake switch looks in order but you’re still dealing with the same brake system problem alert, you may be simply dealing with an under-charged car battery. Flick your headlights and high beams on to test this—if they’re casting weaker than normal light, try
jumpstarting your battery
to fix the issue.
MORE: What you should know about the Honda Civic battery draining problem
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