For 1990-2009 cars

If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, an amber light (and the red BRAKE warning light) should come on when you start your engine. The Amber ABS light should stay on for a few seconds and then go out. That's normal. If it doesn't, it probably means that the light is not working correctly. Be sure to have the system checked and repaired if the light does not come on when it should. See Brake System Warning Light .

The anti-lock brake system has built in self-check features that are performed each time you start your engine. If the amber anti-lock brake system warning light stays on longer than a few seconds after you've started your engine, turn the ignition off. Or, if the light comes on and stays on when you're driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Then, start the engine again to reset the system.

If the light remains on, or comes on after resetting the system or comes on again while driving, your vehicle needs service. If the ABS light is on, but the regular brake system warning light is not on, you do not have anti-lock brakes, but you still have regular brakes. Have your vehicle serviced right away. If both brake lights are on, you do not have anti-lock brakes, and there's a problem with your regular brakes as well. Have your vehicle towed for service. See Towing Your Vehicle .