A week ago I noticed that my e-brake light was on when I was driving. I thought I had left my e-brake partially up but that wasn't the case. It was all the way down. I pulled up the center console and made sure the sensor under the e-brake was being pushed all the way down which it was. So now I am not sure what is causing the e-brake light to stay on. Any input would be appreciated. I have a 01 if that makes a difference.

 

I haven't paid very close attention to my instrument cluster but can it be that this light is the same one for the service brake system too? Check your brake fluid reservoir for the proper level.

 

I had the same problem. I replaced my brake pads and the light went off.

 

I don't think the light knows if you have old pads or new pads, however, the act of doing brake pads causes you to push the fluid back into the system and raise the fluid level in the reservoir. This is what the light (level sensor) detects.
ps. When changing brake pads, it's wise to do a brake fluid flush and bleed. This should also ensure that the level is at the appropriate place.

 

The parking brake lamp is also the same lamp to give a brake failure system warning. It was more then likely your brake fluid level being too low. I suggest you also flush the brake fluid out if you havent already done so with the brake pad change.

 

Does the light comes and goes? or stay on all the times. First thing you should do is check your brake fluid, most of the time it is because your brake fluid is running low. If the fluid in the reservoir is good then inspect your brake pads and brake hoses.

 

There has also been some reports, including my own, where the float in the reservoir gets stuck down thus keeping the light on as if the fluid is low.

In my case it initially got stuck when the ABS was activated, I would then release the float carefully using a small screw driver. Now after un-sticking the float it gets stuck down soon after driving all the time regardless. I guess it's not a float anymore. Unfortunately they don't sell the reservoir by itself, only comes with master cylinder. I guess I could take a chance and buy a used one from a junk yard.