Mike Shaw Subaru

Subaru Outback ABS and Brake Light

Subaru Outback ABS and Brake Light service at Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton, CO

Frequently asked questions
2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness shown

The ABS and brake lights on a Subaru Outback mean the anti-lock braking system may be switched off, while the red brake light can indicate an applied parking brake, low brake fluid, or a hydraulic fault; with both lights on, or a red light and soft pedal, the vehicle should not be driven. Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton, CO, provides diagnostic service for Outback SUVs across model years when these warning lights remain illuminated. The visit traces the warning to the braking system component involved instead of relying on guesswork. Drivers can arrange an inspection through the dealership’s service department and receive guidance based on the brake system’s condition.

Mike Shaw Subaru is located at 1650 W 104th Avenue, Thornton, CO 80234.

What the ABS and brake lights mean on a Subaru Outback

The amber ABS light that stays on after startup means the anti-lock system has switched itself off, most often because of a wheel-speed sensor fault. Normal braking remains, but the wheels can lock during a hard stop. The red BRAKE light, or a circle with an exclamation point, may mean the parking brake is applied, the brake fluid is low, or the hydraulic system has a fault. Low fluid usually points to worn pads or a leak. A soft pedal, a pedal that travels farther than usual, or wheels that lock in a hard stop requires attention. With both lights illuminated, or with the red light and a soft pedal, the Outback should not be driven.

What the diagnosis covers at Mike Shaw Subaru

The ABS and brake light service begins with a scan of the anti-lock brake module for stored trouble codes. The inspection also tests the wheel-speed sensors, their wiring, and tone rings to trace a possible sensor-related warning. Brake fluid level and condition, pad wear, and the parking brake switch are checked as part of the brake system evaluation. This approach helps identify whether the warning relates to a sensor, fluid, pads, parking brake switch, or hydraulic concern. Drivers can schedule service at Mike Shaw Subaru for an inspection.

Recalls on the Subaru Outback

NHTSA 19V664000 covers the 2020 Subaru Outback and a brake pedal mounting bracket bolt that may be missing or insufficiently tightened, potentially reducing braking performance and increasing crash risk. NHTSA 18V626000 covers 2013–2014 Subaru Outback models and an electronic parking brake actuator that may not engage as intended, creating a rollaway risk. Mike Shaw Subaru checks open recalls by VIN and performs an eligible recall remedy at no charge to the owner.

Booking at Mike Shaw Subaru

The visit includes an anti-lock module scan and inspection of the wheel-speed sensors, wiring, tone rings, brake fluid, pads, and parking brake switch. Drivers can schedule an appointment online. Mike Shaw Subaru is at 1650 W 104th Avenue, Thornton, CO 80234; the service department can be reached at 720-724-9280.

Frequently Asked Questions

5 common questions answered

What does the ABS light mean on a Subaru Outback?The amber ABS light means the anti-lock system has switched itself off, most often because of a wheel-speed sensor fault.

Normal braking remains, but the wheels can lock in a hard stop. An illuminated light after startup calls for an ABS module scan and brake system inspection.

What is the difference between the amber ABS light and red brake light?The amber ABS light concerns the anti-lock system, while the red brake light can indicate an applied parking brake, low fluid, or a hydraulic fault.

Low brake fluid usually points to worn pads or a leak. With both lights on, or with a red light and soft pedal, the Outback should not be driven.

Is it safe to drive with the ABS light on?The Outback should not be driven when both lights are on or when the red brake light appears with a soft pedal.

The ABS light alone means normal braking remains, but the wheels can lock in a hard stop. A brake inspection should trace the warning before driving conditions are considered.

What usually causes the ABS and brake lights?The named causes include a wheel-speed sensor fault, low brake fluid, worn pads or a leak, an applied parking brake, or a hydraulic fault.

The inspection also checks the sensor wiring, tone rings, fluid condition, and parking brake switch. These checks help identify the source rather than guessing at the warning.

How can a Subaru Outback driver book service at Mike Shaw Subaru?A driver can schedule service online with Mike Shaw Subaru in Thornton.

The visit includes an anti-lock module scan and brake system inspection. Mike Shaw Subaru is located at 1650 W 104th Avenue, Thornton, CO 80234, and can be reached at 720-724-9280.