Content

• Steps
• Tips
• Warnings
• What do you need

Your brake lights are an integral part of the braking and warning systems. When your brake lights remain on, other drivers cannot figure out when you actually stopped. This could lead to an accident. Hanging brake lights can also drain batteries and lamps. This article will show you how to fix a stuck brake light.

Steps

1. 1 Look at your flashlight brake pedal and look for the brake light switch that turns on the brake light. Most cars have this switch built into the pedals.
   • Derailleur problems are the most common causes of stuck brake lights.
2. 2 Press the switch and try to move it from side to side with your finger. The switch should appear and move around a bit.
   • The switch must be replaced if it does not move.The steps to be taken to replace this switch are shown below.
3. 3 Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
4. 4 Press down on the tabs on the wire harness to disconnect it from the switch you are replacing. Remove the retainer and washer with pliers if your vehicle was built before 1990.
5. 5 Rotate the brake switch counterclockwise and remove it from the mounting bracket for new vehicles.
   • Slide the switch until it snaps loosely onto the bracket. There is no rotation required for older vehicles.
6. 6 Step on the brake pedal on one side while inserting the new derailleur into the mounting bracket on the other side. Let the pedal return to its normal position.
   • Place the new derailleur over the mounting pin on older vehicles in a "U" shape next to the pedal. Move the tab up and down to the follower clip and slide it towards the pedal arm.
7. 7 Turn the switch clockwise until it clicks into place. Plug the harness back into the lock.
   • Install the washer and clip for old cars. Reconnect the harness to the plug.
8. 8 Test your performance by applying the brakes several times.

Tips

• Stuck brake lights can sometimes be caused by electrical faults. If the switch is not the problem, try removing both battery cables for a few minutes to reset the vehicle system. Reconnect the battery and see if the problem reoccurs.

Also check the contact point where the switch piston meets the brake pedal. Most vehicles have a phenolic button that keeps the shifting piston depressed and the brake will be released. Without a button, the piston will simply pass through the hole and the brake lights will remain on.

Warnings

• Take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic if the switch is working properly and the electrical system is not working after two reset attempts. This could mean electrical problems that need to be corrected by a professional.

What do you need

• Torch
• New brake switch
• Mites