Checked brake fluid level and found it a bit low -nothing desperate ,normal as as pads wear so level drops. But then noticed in manual that there's a low fluid warning, so with top off ,tried ignition on . Nothing lit. Q- are connections to top of fluid a plug ,or hard wired . ( idea to test if lamp or switch) .Or indeed on a GLI is this option fitted .

I think they're a plug. It's not an option, all the poverty model sheds I've had have had it....

Indeed, the parts list has it down as a 2-pin plug.

<DULL FACTS ALERT>

As for the light, it's mandatory (from a manufacturer's perspective) for a vehicle to have a warning light for hydraulic system failure, as well as a means of telling that said light works - since January 1998 it's explicitly stated that a low fluid level warning light will suffice in this role (although a fluid level warning light is only mandatory if the level can't easily be checked visually). That's going by EC type approval directives - I'm now far too bored to look up the ECE ones as well

In short, if the light doesn't come on for a few seconds when you first turn the ignition on (or start the engine, or both), check the bulb. If the bulb's OK, it's either the dash unit or the ignition switch at fault. If however the self-test is OK, then the level switch itself is about the only thing left that could go wrong, barring a dodgy connection somewhere.

it does a bulb check when the ign switch is turned to the cranking position. the lid on the resivior has a float with a metal washer on that drops onto the 2 contacts to put the light on if the fluid is low

Thanks guys- I'm old school, in that periodically I'd check brake fluid level, and not depend on some indication .

On the Favorit what seemed to happen is that there was a float in the cap, but the contacts corroded meaning the light would never come on. Unplug, take off, dismantle, sand contacts a bit and clean to remove any particles and it was working again. While not essential for an MOT would suggest anyone make sure the switch is working as it should. It may be your only indication something is wrong if a brake pipe bursts as you're on a long journey.

Edited 4 November, 201015 yr by anewman

it does a bulb check when the ign switch is turned to the cranking position. the lid on the resivior has a float with a metal washer on that drops onto the 2 contacts to put the light on if the fluid is low

Thanks,mate- mine has now started to do that- either I'd missed it or - it's like me suffering from old age .