How to Turn Off the Brake Light on a 1997 Camry ABS

The anti-lock brake light on a 1997 Toyota Camry is located in the instrument panel cluster, next to the tachometer. This light is controlled by the ABS computer module. When the computer detects a problem with the anti-lock brake system, it disables the entire system, stores a trouble code in its memory and illuminates the ABS light. This light cannot be reset by disconnecting the battery or unplugging any of the sensors or connectors. It must be turned off using an automotive scan tool.

Things You'll Need

  • Automotive scan tool
  • Shift the Camry into park and shut off the engine. Apply the parking brake.

  • Connect the scan tool's data cable to the Camry's 16-pin data port, located underneath the dashboard on the driver's side. Turn on the scan tool and allow it to boot up.

  • Choose "ABS" from the scan tool's main menu. Choose "Codes" from the sub-menu. Select "Clear all current and stored DTCs" from the next menu. DTC is an abbreviation for "Diagnostic Trouble Code," a sequence of letters and numbers that represents the problem that the computer detected.

  • Allow the scan tool to clear the codes and then disconnect the device from the vehicle once it indicates that the codes have been cleared.

  • Start the Camry to verify that the ABS light is no longer illuminated.