Is your Subaru’s brake light suddenly putting on a light show on your dashboard? That flashing red warning isn’t just annoying—it’s your car trying to tell you something important. Whether you’re driving your Outback through mountain roads or commuting in your Legacy, that blinking light demands attention.
What Does a Flashing Brake Light Mean in Your Subaru?
When your Subaru’s brake light starts flashing, it’s typically signaling one of several problems with your braking system. This warning shouldn’t be ignored, as your brakes are arguably the most critical safety component in your vehicle.
The most common causes include:
- Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) system malfunction
- Low brake fluid levels
- Partially engaged parking brake
- Problems with the Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) system
Let’s break down each of these issues so you can understand exactly what’s happening with your vehicle.
Electronic Parking Brake Malfunctions: The #1 Culprit
If your brake warning light is flashing in a newer Subaru model (especially 2015-2018 Legacy, Outback, or WRX), you’re likely experiencing an Electronic Parking Brake system malfunction. This is by far the most common cause of flashing brake lights in modern Subarus.
The Connector Problem
The most frequent issue is surprisingly simple: a loose or damaged wiring harness connector at the EPB actuator. The retaining tab on this connector often cracks over time, causing an unstable electrical connection that confuses your car’s computer.
When this happens, your Subaru’s brake system doesn’t know if the parking brake is engaged or disengaged, triggering the warning light to flash. This problem is so widespread that Subaru has issued Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 06-87-22R specifically addressing it.
Warranty Coverage for EPB Connector Issues
Good news if you drive a 2015-2018 Subaru: The manufacturer has extended the warranty coverage for the EPB connector to 15 years with unlimited mileage. This means you can likely get this fixed at no cost, even if your vehicle’s standard warranty has expired.
Brake Fluid Level Problems: Check Your Reservoir
Another common trigger for a flashing brake light is low brake fluid levels. Your Subaru has sensors that monitor the fluid level in the brake reservoir, and when it drops near the minimum mark, these sensors trip the warning light.
The light might flash intermittently, especially when driving over bumps or around corners, because the fluid shifts in the reservoir, momentarily breaking contact with the sensors.
Here’s what you should check:
- Locate the brake fluid reservoir (usually near the rear of the engine compartment)
- Check if the fluid level is between the “MIN” and “MAX” lines
- If low, top off with the recommended DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check your owner’s manual)
⚠️ Important: Low brake fluid could indicate brake pad wear or a leak in your brake system. If you find yourself repeatedly topping off fluid, have your brakes inspected immediately.
Is Your Parking Brake Partially Engaged?
Sometimes the simplest explanation is the correct one. A partially engaged parking brake can trigger the warning light to flash.
Even if you think the parking brake is fully released, the sensor might detect that it’s still slightly engaged. This is particularly common in vehicles with electronic parking brakes, where the system might not fully disengage due to a mechanical or electronic glitch.
Try this quick fix:
- Come to a complete stop
- Fully engage the parking brake (press the button or pull the lever)
- Release the parking brake completely
- See if the warning light stops flashing
EBD System Warnings: When Brake and ABS Lights Come On Together
If both your brake warning light and ABS light illuminate at the same time, this indicates an issue with your Electronic Brake Force Distribution system. The EBD system helps balance braking force between the front and rear wheels for optimal stopping power.
When both lights come on, it means your Subaru has detected a fault in this critical system. This requires immediate attention, as your vehicle may not brake properly, especially in emergency situations.
| Warning Lights | What It Means | Urgency Level |
|---|---|---|
| Flashing brake light only | Usually EPB connector or brake fluid issue | Moderate – Address soon but may be drivable |
| Brake light + ABS light | EBD system malfunction | High – Immediate attention required |
| Flashing brake light + changes in brake feel | Serious brake system malfunction | Critical – Stop driving immediately |
Subaru’s Technical Service Bulletins and Recalls for Brake Issues
Subaru has issued several technical service bulletins and recalls addressing brake light and EPB issues. Being aware of these can help you get the proper repairs, often at no cost.
EPB Connector Warranty Extension (TSB 06-87-22R)
As mentioned earlier, Subaru has acknowledged issues with EPB connectors in 2015-2018 Legacy, Outback, and WRX models. The defective connector retaining tabs often crack, causing electrical connection problems.
The repair involves installing improved retaining clips with specific part numbers:
- Legacy/Outback RH: 26018AL02B
- Legacy/Outback LH: 26018AL03B
- WRX RH: 26018VA001
- WRX LH: 26018VA011
EPB Actuator Recall (WTV-81)
Another significant recall (WTV-81) affects 2010-2014 Legacy and Outback models with manual transmissions. This recall addresses defects in the EPB actuator’s circuit board, where components may crack over time.
This defect can prevent the parking brake from engaging properly, creating a dangerous rollaway risk if the vehicle isn’t left in gear. If your vehicle falls within this range, check with your Subaru dealer to see if the recall work has been performed.
DIY Troubleshooting Steps for Flashing Brake Lights
Before heading to the mechanic, here are some troubleshooting steps you can perform:
1. Initial Safety Check
When your brake light starts flashing, immediately assess your vehicle’s braking performance:
- Does the brake pedal feel normal?
- Is the stopping distance what you’d expect?
- Are there unusual noises when braking?
If the brakes feel normal, you can likely drive to a repair facility. If there are changes in brake feel or stopping power, find a safe place to stop immediately.
2. Basic Inspection Steps
- Check Your Parking Brake: Make sure it’s completely disengaged
- Inspect Brake Fluid Level: Verify it’s between the minimum and maximum marks
- Listen for Unusual Sounds: Pay attention to grinding, buzzing, or clicking
- Note the Warning Light Pattern: Continuous flashing, intermittent, or specific patterns can help diagnose the issue
3. Try These DIY Reset Methods
Some Subaru owners have successfully resolved flashing brake light issues using simple reset procedures:
Hill Assist Reset Method:
- With the vehicle running and your foot on the brake pedal
- Push the EPB button to engage the parking brake
- Push and hold the hill assist button for about 15 seconds
- The EPB should engage and disengage several times during the reset
Basic EPB Reset:
- Turn the ignition to ON position (don’t start the engine)
- Repeatedly engage and release the EPB switch several times
- This sometimes recalibrates the system
Professional Diagnosis and Repair
While DIY troubleshooting can sometimes resolve the issue, many EPB problems require professional diagnosis and repair.
OBD-II Diagnostic Codes
Mechanics use OBD-II scanners to retrieve fault codes from your Subaru’s computer systems. Common diagnostic trouble codes related to flashing brake lights include:
- C1956: Right-hand EPB actuator circuit malfunction
- C1957: Left-hand EPB actuator circuit malfunction
- B2803: Electronic parking brake operation prohibit
EPB Connector Repair Process
For vehicles affected by the EPB connector issue, the repair typically involves:
- Disconnecting the battery and raising the vehicle
- Removing the affected wheel to access the EPB actuator
- Disconnecting the faulty connector and installing the improved retaining clip
- Applying lubrication to prevent future corrosion
- Performing tests to ensure proper operation
When You Need Specialized Equipment
Complex EPB issues often require professional diagnostic equipment. Authorized Subaru technicians have access to the Subaru Select Monitor, which can perform comprehensive system resets and calibrations not possible with basic OBD-II scanners.
What to Do if Your Brake Light Starts Flashing While Driving
If your brake light suddenly begins flashing while you’re on the road:
- Stay Calm: Don’t panic, but take the warning seriously
- Test Your Brakes: Carefully apply your brakes to assess stopping power
- Find a Safe Place: If braking feels normal, drive cautiously to the nearest safe parking area
- Avoid Hills: Don’t park on inclines if you suspect your EPB isn’t working properly
- Call for Assistance: Contact your dealer or a trusted mechanic for guidance
When to Stop Immediately
Pull over and stop driving as soon as safely possible if:
- Both brake and ABS warning lights illuminate simultaneously
- You notice changes in brake pedal feel or stopping distance
- You hear grinding or metallic scraping sounds
- The parking brake completely fails to engage
Model-Specific Considerations
Different Subaru models and years have particular brake system characteristics and common issues:
2015-2018 Legacy and Outback
These model years are most affected by EPB connector issues due to design weaknesses in the original connector tabs. Vehicles in this range should have their EPB connectors inspected regularly, especially if experiencing intermittent brake warning lights.
2010-2014 Legacy and Outback (Manual Transmission)
These models are subject to the WTV-81 recall for EPB actuator replacement. The recall addresses circuit board defects that can prevent proper EPB engagement.
WRX Models
WRX vehicles with CVT transmissions from 2015-2018 are included in the EPB connector warranty extension. These high-performance vehicles may experience more frequent connector issues due to their more demanding driving conditions.
Repair Costs and Warranty Coverage
Understanding potential costs and coverage options helps you plan for necessary repairs:
Warranty Extensions
Subaru’s EPB connector warranty extension covers affected 2015-2018 models for 15 years with unlimited mileage. This coverage includes labor and parts for connector repairs using the improved retaining clip system.
Typical Repair Costs (Without Warranty)
If your vehicle isn’t covered under warranty extension, expect these approximate costs:
- EPB connector repair kit: $8-15 for parts
- Labor: Typically 0.5-1 hour at standard shop rates
- Complete harness replacement: $800-900 if the connector cannot be repaired
The Evolution of Subaru’s Brake Systems
Subaru has continuously refined their EPB systems over the years:
- Pre-2010 models: Mostly used traditional cable-operated parking brakes
- 2010-2014 models: First-generation electronic parking brakes with some reliability issues
- 2015-2018 models: Improved systems but with connector design flaws
- 2019 and newer models: Further refined systems with more reliable connectors and improved software
Understanding this evolution helps explain why certain model years experience specific problems. Newer models generally have more reliable EPB systems with improved connectors and more sophisticated control software.
Frequently Encountered Scenarios and Solutions
Here are some real-world scenarios Subaru owners commonly encounter:
Scenario 1: Intermittent Flashing Only When Starting
Likely Cause: Minor electrical glitch or poor connection
Solution: Try the EPB reset procedures mentioned earlier; often resolves without parts replacement
Scenario 2: Constant Flashing That Started After Car Wash
Likely Cause: Water intrusion into EPB connector
Solution: Allow system to dry; consider using electronic contact cleaner spray if problem persists
Scenario 3: Flashing Light With Grinding Noise When Engaging EPB
Likely Cause: Mechanical problem with actuator or seized caliper
Solution: Professional inspection required; likely needs actuator replacement
Scenario 4: Light Flashes Only When Driving Over Bumps
Likely Cause: Intermittent connection or low brake fluid
Solution: Check fluid levels and inspect connectors for secure fit
By understanding these common scenarios, you can better diagnose your specific situation and determine the appropriate next steps.
Expert Tips for Subaru Owners
As you navigate your Subaru’s brake light issue, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Document Everything: Keep records of when the light first appeared and any patterns you notice
- Take Video Evidence: Record the flashing light and any unusual sounds to show your mechanic
- Check Your VIN: Use Subaru’s recall lookup tool to see if your vehicle has outstanding recalls
- Don’t Reset and Forget: While resets may temporarily fix the problem, they rarely solve underlying issues
- Be Cautious With Aftermarket Parts: Stick with Subaru Genuine Parts for EPB components
Remember that brake systems are critical safety components, and while cost considerations are valid, this isn’t the area to cut corners on repairs or maintenance.
Addressing your Subaru’s flashing brake light promptly not only ensures your safety but also prevents more expensive repairs down the road. Whether it’s a simple connector issue covered under warranty or a more complex brake system problem, understanding the root cause is the first step toward a proper solution.
