As a Honda Civic owner, you’re likely familiar with the importance of regular maintenance to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. One critical aspect of your car’s overall performance is the brake system, which is responsible for slowing down and stopping your vehicle. A malfunctioning brake system can lead to serious safety issues, making it crucial to address any issues promptly. One common problem many Honda Civic owners face is the brake system light coming on, indicating a potential issue with the brakes. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of resetting the brake system light on your 2017 Honda Civic and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
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Why is it Important to Reset the Brake System Light?
The brake system light is a warning indicator that alerts you to a potential issue with your vehicle’s brakes. When the light comes on, it’s essential to investigate the cause and address it promptly to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Ignoring the warning light can lead to more severe problems, including:
- Brake failure, which can result in accidents or injuries
- Increased wear and tear on other vehicle components, leading to costly repairs
- Potential damage to your vehicle’s electronic systems
Resetting the brake system light is a crucial step in maintaining your vehicle’s overall performance and ensuring your safety on the road. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why resetting the brake system light is important and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it on your 2017 Honda Civic.
Common Causes of the Brake System Light Coming On
The brake system light can come on due to various reasons, including:
Low Brake Fluid Level
If the brake fluid level is low, the brake system light will come on to alert you to the issue. Low brake fluid levels can be caused by:
- Leaks in the brake system
- Worn-out brake pads or rotors
- Incorrect brake fluid type or level
To reset the brake system light due to a low brake fluid level, you’ll need to top off the fluid or have it replaced by a professional mechanic. (See Also: How Do I Know My Brake Pads Are Worn? Signs To Look Out For)
Brake Pad Wear
Worn-out brake pads can cause the brake system light to come on. When brake pads wear out, they can cause:
- Reduced braking performance
- Inconsistent brake feel
- Increased risk of brake failure
To reset the brake system light due to worn-out brake pads, you’ll need to replace them with new ones. It’s recommended to have this done by a professional mechanic to ensure proper installation and alignment.
Brake Rotor Warping
Warped brake rotors can cause the brake system light to come on. Warped rotors can be caused by:
- Excessive heat buildup
- Improper brake pad installation
- Worn-out brake pads
To reset the brake system light due to warped brake rotors, you’ll need to have them resurfaced or replaced by a professional mechanic.
How to Reset the Brake System Light on Your 2017 Honda Civic
Resetting the brake system light on your 2017 Honda Civic is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it:
Method 1: Using the Honda Civic’s On-Board Diagnostic System (OBD-II)
To reset the brake system light using the OBD-II system, follow these steps: (See Also: How to Replace Coaster Brake? A Step-by-Step Guide)
- Make sure your vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged
- Turn off the engine and ensure the parking brake is still engaged
- Locate the OBD-II port, which is usually located under the steering column or on the center console
- Use a scan tool or code reader to connect to the OBD-II port
- Clear the trouble code by following the prompts on the scan tool or code reader
- Turn off the scan tool or code reader and restart the engine
- Check the brake system light to ensure it’s no longer illuminated
Method 2: Using the Honda Civic’s Infotainment System
To reset the brake system light using the infotainment system, follow these steps:
- Make sure your vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged
- Turn off the engine and ensure the parking brake is still engaged
- Locate the infotainment system, which is usually located on the center console
- Press the “Menu” button on the infotainment system
- Scroll down to “Vehicle Settings” and select it
- Scroll down to “Trouble Codes” and select it
- Clear the trouble code by following the prompts on the infotainment system
- Turn off the infotainment system and restart the engine
- Check the brake system light to ensure it’s no longer illuminated
Recap and Conclusion
In this article, we’ve explored the importance of resetting the brake system light on your 2017 Honda Civic. We’ve also discussed common causes of the brake system light coming on and provided a step-by-step guide on how to reset it using the OBD-II system and the infotainment system. Remember to address any underlying issues causing the brake system light to come on to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why did my brake system light come on?
A: The brake system light can come on due to various reasons, including low brake fluid levels, worn-out brake pads, or warped brake rotors. It’s essential to investigate the cause and address it promptly to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
Q: Can I reset the brake system light myself?
A: Yes, you can reset the brake system light yourself using the OBD-II system or the infotainment system. However, if you’re not comfortable with the process or if the light comes on due to a serious issue, it’s recommended to have a professional mechanic assist you.
Q: How often should I reset the brake system light?
A: You should reset the brake system light whenever it comes on, regardless of the reason. It’s essential to address any underlying issues causing the light to come on to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. (See Also: Which Brake Is the Front Brake on a Motorcycle? Essential Guide)
Q: Can I ignore the brake system light?
A: No, it’s not recommended to ignore the brake system light. Ignoring the warning light can lead to more severe problems, including brake failure, increased wear and tear on other vehicle components, and potential damage to your vehicle’s electronic systems.
Q: What should I do if the brake system light comes on while driving?
A: If the brake system light comes on while driving, it’s essential to pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine. Do not continue driving until the issue is addressed by a professional mechanic.
