OK, I found similar posts, but just wanted to re-hash it. 2002 Forester Sport, Brake and Battery indicator lights stay on after starting car. At first, they would go out, but now they seem to stay on.

Things I've tried:

- checked brake and clutch fluid levels: OK

- checked battery voltage (not running): 12.6V

- e-brake handle is going down fine

- DRL does not operate when indicator lights are on.

 

Things I have not tried:

- re-seating Brake fluid cap.

- Actually looking at e-brake switch

- battery voltage when running

 

Car supposedly had 80% front / 100% rear on brakes when we got it a little over a month ago. We asked for the 96,000KM service to be done, but it does not look like the brake system was flushed.

OK, I'm responding to my own post.

Checked codes: P0442 (minor evap leak - Pending code: someone probably didn't tighten the gas cap one day)

Checked voltage w/engine running: 11.91 ouch

Pulled connector off Alt while running: lights went off. Re-connected: lights came on.

 

Looks like the dealer used-car warranty is going to come in handy.

you answered your own question

 

bad altenator.

 

 

nipper

Yes, getting a simultaneous battery and brake lamp are almost pathognomonic for a bad alternator.

 

Good job at diagnosis...

 

matt d