Volkswagen Repair: flickering red brake light, electrical problem, flickering light

Question
Hi, so last week I was driving my '97 Jetta and the red brake light that's on the dashboard started to flicker red (as if the E-brake was on, but it wasn't) when I was going up a hill.  It just started doing that again yesterday & today, and I notice moreso when I'm going up hills.  Do you think it might be an electrical problem?  Or a sign that my brakes are failing?  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Rilla;
The flickering light indicates that the brake fluid, in the reservoir is low.  This, in turn, means that the brakes have worn considerably, and the pads, in the front, and the shoes in the back should be replaced.  Do it soon, very soon, before the rotors in the front, and the drums in the back have to be replaced too.  As a strictly temporary measure, you could add a small amount of brake fluid to the reservoir to turn out the light while you are waiting for an appointment at your local dealer.
Hope this helps.  Good luck.