My dad has a 2001 Nissan Xterra and on occasion when he starts it up the parking break light starts flashing sometimes it stays on and other times its not on at all. Was trying to figure out what the issue was before we actually took it into the shop to get it looked out. I was thinking something along the lines of the parking brake cable be stuck but still not 100% sure. Do you guys have any ideas or thoughts on the issue?

 

Flashing wouldn't mean the parking brake cable is stuck. Plus if it was, you'd feel it in the handle and the fact that the car becomes a turd. Generally, the light would mean a brake system issue, such as low fluid.

 

I told them to check the brake fluid level. Also had them check the parking break and they said it releases and enables fine. The Xterra has the parking break pedal and the quick release under the steering wheel.

Guess if i cant figure it out on here then ill join a Xterra Forum and hopefully they welcome me with open arms.

 

fluid would be the only thing i could see wrong

 

Check the other parts in the brake system. Make sure the calipers/wheel cylinders function, make sure when the brakes are applied, the fluid level is correct, check to make sure the ABS solenoid/valves isn't sticking open slightly, etc. However, to make your life easier, find out what sensors are attached to the light and then figure out what parameter each measures so you can troubleshoot. You already got the parking brake and low-fluid sensors checked out and since those parameters are fine. If the other parameters check out too, maybe a sensor went bad.

 

figured it out, pulled the owners manual up online and says when the light is flashing that the brake fluid might be low.

 

dude, a few ppl told you that already...lol. glad you figured it out.

 

I think your brake fluid might be low. Wild guess.