Honda released the CR-V in the 1997 model year. This SUV combined the utility needed in an SUV with the compact size that many Honda drivers desired. The 2001 model year was the final year for the first generation of CR-Vs, as Honda completely redesigned this popular model the following year. The instrument cluster has a variety of warning lights, one of which is the "Brake" light.
The 2001 CR-V has a sensor inside the master cylinder reservoir. When the fluid drops below the minimum level in the reservoir, the "Brake" light illuminates. Check the level in the reservoir and add DOT 3 brake fluid until the level is above the "Min" line on the reservoir. Have the brake system evaluated as soon as possible, as this symptom indicates a problem in the brake system.
The "Brake" light on the 2001 CR-V turns on when you engage the parking brake and extinguishes when you release the parking brake. It is possible to release the parking brake to the point that the SUV will move, but the parking brake handle remains partly raised. Push the button on the parking brake lever and push the lever downward to assure it is all the way down.
As the brake pads wear out on the 2001 CR-V, the brake system uses more brake fluid to engage the brakes. This leads to the fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir to drop; if the fluid level drops below the minimum level, the "Brake" light turns on.
The EX and Special Edition trim levels of the 2001 CR-V come standard with antilock brakes. This system uses a series of pumps and sensors to pump the brakes at a rapid pace when the wheels lock up. If any electronically controlled components in the ABS fail, the "Brake" light illuminates to warn you.
