Brake Light Switch Replacement
What is a brake light switch?
The brake light switch is a small electrical component situated on or in contact with the brake pedal. The purpose of this switch is to allow the brake lights to illuminate when the brake pedal moves.
How does the brake light switch work?
One end of this small switch looks like a small button, and when it is pressed the brake lights turn off. The button is pressed by the brake pedal unless the brake pedal is compressed. This creates the situation where the brake lights turn on anytime the brakes are pressed. It is easiest to consider the brake light switch to work the opposite of the brake pedal. When the pedal is pressed, the switch is not, likewise, when the switch is pressed, the brake pedal is resting. This switch also sends a signal to the ignition switch and gear selector. The purpose of this signal is to ensure the brake pedal is pressed before starting the vehicle, or moving the gear selector out of park.
What are the symptoms related to a bad brake light switch?
Consumers often complain that the brake lights stay on and drain the battery when not in use. Additionally, the brake lights may not illuminate when pressing the brake pedal. Often, and especially in modern vehicles, this will result in the inability to start the vehicle, or shift the transmission out of the park position.
Can I drive with a brake light switch problem?
Driving a vehicle with a faulty brake light switch is dangerous, if not impossible. If the brake lights stay on constantly, the vehicle may not have enough power to start after sitting for several hours. If the brake lights do not turn on, the vehicle may be illegal to operate. Additionally, other drivers on the road may think the tail lights of the vehicle are turned on, leaving them unaware when you are braking, and causing a traffic accident. The vehicle may not move from park, even if the gear selector is manually released.
Get this fixed by a RepairPal Certified Shop