The CRITICAL DEFECT fault light can indicate what?

The CRITICAL DEFECT fault light serves as a crucial indicator of a significant issue within the system, particularly pointing towards a major failure of the friction brakes. Friction brakes are vital for the safe operation of traction systems, as they are responsible for decelerating and stopping the vehicle. When this fault light is illuminated, it signifies that there is an urgent problem that could compromise safety and functionality, necessitating immediate attention and potentially leading to a halt in operations until the issue is resolved.

In contrast, other options do not align with the meaning of the CRITICAL DEFECT fault light. Issues categorized as minor traction do not warrant a critical alert, nor does the presence of the light suggest that the system is fully operational. Normal system settings would not activate this fault light, as its purpose is specifically to indicate severe malfunctions that require prompt remediation. Thus, the correct interpretation of the CRITICAL DEFECT fault light is directly linked to the integrity and operation of the friction brake system.