> > You original post gave the impression you taillights were staying
> > illuminated, that was why I suggest what I did as a probable
> > cause. Subsequent posts seem to suggest the instrument cluster
> > light was staying illuminated. Read you owners manual but that
> > enunciator generally indicates a failure in a portion of the
> > hydraulic system, rather that the electrical system. If the
> > fluid level is correct and you are not a mechanic, take it to a
> > competent brake shop before you have a complete failure and an
> > accident, WBMA
> > mike hunt
>
> Not necessarily.
> There are two "brake" lamps on the dash of most Hondas. One indicates that
> one (or both) of your brake lamps have failed. This circuit runs thru the
> computer, and it has circuitry to monitor amp draw, and illuminates when out
> of range.

The circuits run thru a magnetic reed switch. A transistor is all it
needs and usually part of the courtesy control unit. No computer
involved. Here, take a look at this picture (not affiliated to me).

http://autotails.tripod.com/brakes.htm

Koji

> If that light is on, and both brake lights are working, check for
> proper bulb type installation, and/or dirty or water in the sockets.
>
> The other lamp indicates that the parking brake is applied and/or low fluid
> in the master cylinder. Low fluid in the master cylinder may not indicate a
> serious problem...other than the fact that the level is low...which could be
> a normal scenario if your pads and shoes are worn, but not necessarily out
> of the operational (safety) range.