[Pasavito]

Poor Norma the i30 is having a few moments…
Driving today, the handbrake warning light came on. The handbrake is definitely not on. So I’m guessing some sort of warning.

She was serviced in late November & the brake fluid was replaced (there were signs of moisture in it). Checked the fluid level now & it’s at max. There’s no sign of a leak. Handbrake is definitely not engaged while driving. The handbrake isn’t an EPB.

Faulty sensor maybe? I did think “well, it’s a 40 degree day” but brake fluid handles temps in the hundreds I think.

I’m going to call Hyundai roadside assist seeing it’s free. But would welcome any ideas.

I’m definitely not mechanically minded (my Dad is rolling in his grave - he was an aircraft mechanic) so this is outside my comfort zone. Willing to try and learn though.

[The Gonz]

As far as I'm aware, the handbrake warning is activated only by a switch closing when the handle is raised past a certain point. I would focus on the sensor switch somewhere near the handbrake handle.

[Pasavito]

Yep, called Hyundai’s 24 x 7 service & they sent sn RACV tech out. By then, the light was off lol

He reckons same thing; the sensor in the handbrake itself. I’ll note if it comes back on. Which it did tonight after we went over a big bump at the airport.

[The Gonz]

... By then, the light was off ... it did tonight after we went over a big bump at the airport.

That looks like you need to remove enough around the handbrake lever to see the switch and check its connection and wiring. Something is loose enough to change the switch contact position or insulation is stripped enough to cause a short representing a raised lever.

my money would be on the switch as well being either no good or out of adjustment

[Aye30]

In your manual, does it also state that this light also comes on if the brake fluid reservoir sensor  detects low brake fluid?  If yes the also check the wiring around that sensor as well. Set a camera phone  recording video of the light and wiggle any wires you see near the brake master cylinder, with the ignition at a point where the light can come on.