What Could Be Triggering
the Service Brake System Warning in Your GMC Sierra?

What Could Be Triggering the Service Brake System

Service Brake System

What Could Be Triggering the Service Brake System Warning in Your GMC Sierra?

Have you ever seen a notification that says Service Brake System in your GMC dashboard? This is a common problem with GMC Sierra and while your brakes still work absolutely fine it is advisable not to take this warning lightly. Your truck’s braking system is one of the most important safety features installed in your vehicle, and when it provides such a warning, it is an indication that something is amiss. The problem could range from a simple brake fluid issue to even complex issues like a failing master cylinder. In any case, knowing what is causing the problem will assist you in taking the right measures before the situation gets out of hand.

Common Causes of the Service Brake System Warning

Low Brake Fluid: This warning is commonly caused by low brake fluid in the car’s system. The braking system uses hydraulic pressure and when there is inadequate fluid in the system the pressure is low. This may make the brakes feel spongy or even lead to brake failure in the worst-case scenario. If the brake fluid is low, it should be refilled but the reason it got low should also be identified.
Worn Brake Pads and Rotors: Brake pads and rotors are bound to wear out over time and when they reach a certain thickness, the Service Brake System warning is activated. Most of the modern GMC Sierra trucks have brake pad wear sensors that help you know when the pads are worn out. If you feel vibrations or hear a squeaking, grinding or screeching noise every time you press the brake pedal, it is high time to replace the pads. Another sign is when your brake pedal feels soft or takes time to return to its normal position after being pressed. Worn pads also result in uneven rotor wear which may call for resurfacing or replacement of the rotor.
Brake Sensors: There are several sensors in Your GMC Sierra that are used to check the condition of the brake system. Some of the most common ones include the wheel speed sensors, brake fluid level sensors and the brake pad wear sensors. If any of these sensors fail, they may relay wrong information to the truck’s computer and the warning light will go on even when the brakes are okay.
Anti Lock Braking System (ABS) Failure: ABS is a system that stops the wheels from locking during a sudden application of the brakes on icy roads. If the ABS module or the wheel speed sensors are faulty, it may lead to the illumination of the Service Brake System warning.

What You Should Do If the Service Brake Warning Appears

Look at Your Brake Fluid: The first thing that should be done once you notice this warning is to open the bonnet of the truck and check the brake fluid level. If the volume of the fluid is low, then increasing it may help remove the warning message for a while.
Check for Brake Fluid Leak and Worn Parts: If you find a pool of brake fluid on the ground beneath the truck or the brake fluid reservoir is low, there might be a leak that needs to be fixed. Worn brake pads and rotors should also be inspected during the maintenance check because they may be the cause of the warning message. If they are worn out or worn unevenly, replacing them can improve the braking ability and remove the warning light.

Visit TRB Motorsports For The Best Brake Service For Your GMC

Here at TRB Motorsports, we are skilled in diagnosing and servicing the brake system on GMC Sierra. If your Service Brake System warning is due to low brake fluid, bad brake pads, ABS problems or bad sensors, we will diagnose and repair it in record time to make your truck safe to use on the road.

Serving Carrollton and Dallas TX, we also offer brake parts for those who wish to upgrade their Sierra’s brake system. If you are in need of OEM replacement parts, performance rotors, or high-performance brake pads, we are capable of providing both the parts and services. Come to us for an assessment and get professional services so your GMC Sierra’s braking system can function optimally!