Several components in a car are small in size, but they serve a crucial safety function. A good example is the brake light switch. When you press the brake pedal as you slow down or are about to stop, the brake lights inform the drivers behind you of your intended action.
These lights do not turn on automatically. They do so with the help of a brake light switch. The switch opens when you release the brake pedal and closes when you press the brake pedal. When it’s closed, the brake lights turn on.
While the brake light switch is durable and wear resistance, it’s susceptible to damage. Want to know the different types of brake light switches? Want to know the location of the brake light switch in your car?
Keep reading!
Breaking Down the Brake Light Switch Diagram & Its Location
The brake lights of your vehicle are usually controlled by brake light switches. These switches are commonly connected to the brake pedal just below your steering wheel. They are small and tend to fail or wear out over time. If left unchecked, the faulty brake light switches can prevent your car’s brake lights from working.
This is dangerous when driving whether it’s daylight or nighttime. Without functioning brake lights, other drivers behind you won’t know when you’re about to slow down or come to a stop. Since driving with a faulty brake light switch is dangerous, it’s best to understand how it functions so you can diagnose the problems.
2 Pin Brake Light Switch Diagram
The 2 Pin Brake Light switch is a small device usually attached to the brake pedal mechanism. Despite its size, it plays an important role in your car. It turns on the brake lights when you press the brake pedal and sends a signal to the onboard computer when you apply the brakes.
By looking at the 2-Pin Brake Light Switch Diagram below, you can easily identify parts such as the flasher relay, fuse, and more.
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The 2-Pin Brake Light Switch comprises positive and negative connections. When you press the brake pedal, it activates the switch and completes the circuit. This turns on the brake lights.
4 Pin Brake Light Switch Diagram
Before the 1960s, brake warning lights were driven by hydraulic pressure in the brake line. However, they discovered that the system was prone to failure. As such, vehicle manufacturers transitioned to the more reliable mechanical brake light switch.
It’s rare for the 4 Pin Brake Light Switch to fail as the current design employs a relay. This allows for a lower voltage control circuit to operate the main switch for your car’s brake lights. From the 4-Pin Brake Light Switch Diagram below, you can identify four pins.
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One of the Pins provides a battery positive 12 V supply, another operates the brakes lights, and the other refers to the ground connections. Lastly, we have the last pin that sends signals to your car’s onboard computer.
6 Pin Brake Light Switch Diagram
The 6-Pin Brake Light Switch has 6 pins, unlike the 4-pin and 2-pin brake light switches. Made of high-quality plastic material, it’s lightweight, sturdy, rust-proof, and durable. In fact, it’s not easy to wear out. Plus, it guarantees you a long service life.
As aforementioned, the 6 Pin Brake Light Switch has 6 pins each with its own function. This all-in-one switch has a pin for the brake lamp switch sense, ground connection, speed control power supply, and more.
For vehicles in need of a 6 Pin Brake Light Switch, you don’t need additional brake light switches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How does a brake light switch work?
A brake light switch is a small component close to the brake pedal arm. When you depress the brake pedal to slow or stop the vehicle, the brake switch automatically closes. When it does so, the brake lights turn on.
When you lift your foot off the brake pedal, the brake switch opens and turns off the brake lights. Thanks to the brake light switch, you can warn other drivers behind you that you’re slowing down or bringing your car to a stop.
2. Is it easy to replace a brake light switch?
Yes, it’s easy for those skilled and experienced. However, with the right tools, you can also replace a brake light switch. You’ll need a flashlight, needle nose pliers, and 10 mm, 14 mm, 5/16”, and ⅜” wrenches.
Open the hood, and disconnect the battery by removing the negative cable from the battery. Tuck it somewhere so that it does not come into contact with the terminal. Locate the brake light switch just above the brake pedal. Press the two plastic tabs to remove the wiring connector from the switch. If there is resistance, wiggle the connection back and forth.
To remove the switch, rotate it in the counterclockwise direction, then remove it. Align the socket holes, and the switch, then insert the new brake light switch. To lock the brake switch in place, rotate it in a clockwise direction. Reconnect the battery and test the brake light switch to know if the brake lights turn on.
3. How do you check a brake light switch?
You can test the brake light switch with a multimeter without removing it. We recommend testing the brake switch continuity with the pedal depressed and released. If there is no voltage at the brake switch, the reason could be a blown fuse.
4. Should brake lights work when the car is off?
Yes, the brake lights should work under any condition as long as enough electricity is present to power them.
5. How much does it cost to replace the brake light switch?
Replacing a brake light switch costs around $25 to $80. This depends on the make and model of your vehicle.
6. What happens when your brake light switch goes bad?
If your brake light switch goes bad, the brake lights won’t operate when you slow your vehicle down or stop it. Also, the brake lights will not turn on when you shift the transmission shifter out of “Park.”
In vehicles with a push-button start system, the faulty brake light will prevent your vehicle from starting.
Final Words
In most vehicles, there is a special procedure for removing and installing a new brake light switch. We recommend checking your service manual because incorrect installation of the switch means it will not work. If you plan on replacing the brake light switch yourself, consult your service manual.