What is the Brake Light Switch all about?

When driving, brake lights notify people behind you that you are slowing down or stopping. If your brake lights do not work, you are at risk for causing accidents. The brake light switch is connected to the brake pedal of the car. When you step on the brake pedal, the brake lights turn on. If the switch is faulty, the brake lights will not work.

Keep in mind:

• Although uncommon, sometimes the electrical wires connected to the switch break. In that case, the mechanic will need to replace the electrical connector.
• A brake light switch failure can affect the operation of the shift interlock system and not allow the driver to shift from Park to Drive.

How it's done:

• Inspect brake light switch, circuit, and fuses.
• Remove and replace the brake light switch if not working.
• Replace the fuse if it is blown.
• Check operation of the brake lights.
• Verify the vehicle can be shifted from Park to Drive.

Our recommendation:

The brake lights and brake switch should be inspected regularly as part of a major service.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Brake Light Switch?

• Brake lights not working.
• Not being able to shift out of Park.

How important is this service?

When you depress the brake pedal, the brake light switch sends a signal to your brake lights, and turns them on. Brake lights are an important safety feature (and a legal necessity), but they rely on the brake light switch to turn them on. Without a functioning brake light switch, there will be no communication between your brake pedal and your brake lights.