While we are not doing any serious electrical work with this job, it’s better to be safe and remove the power so there is no chance of an electrical short while you are working with the connector switch. Tip: This is an awkward place to work in, so place a towel or cushion on the ground to help you stay comfortable throughout this job. There are many links and components in this area so the pliers are useful for unplugging the connector in a tight spot. Certain switches may have two nuts that lock the sensor at a certain distance from the lever and others just twist out of a socket so the wrenches may not be necessary. Note: Some of these tools may not be necessary depending on how the switch is secured so before you go and buy any tools, use a flashlight and take a look at the switch. Wrenches - size 10mm to 14mm and 5/16” to ⅜” This could lead to an intermittent issue where the switch is correctly aligned at certain times and will get dislodged or stop working at others. It is also possible for the reverse of this to happen, where the plunger breaks in such a way that the terminals are permanently connected and the lights are always on.Ĭertain types of switches can be adjusted and over time may become misaligned. The most common symptom of a brake switch issue is no illumination when stepping on the brakes. If all the lights are not working, it may be due to a faulty brake switch. While diagnosing brake light issues, keep in mind that the brake switch controls all three lights. The brake switch does exactly this action when you press on the brake pedal.Ī connector or plunger moves with the brake pedal and bridges the gap between both sides of the circuit allowing power to flow and light up the brake lights.
Part 1 of 4: Understand how brake lights workĪll electrical components need a power connection and a ground connection to allow current to flow from the battery to the load, in this case, a light bulb. You will need to understand the functioning of a brake light so that you can effectively diagnose any problems. Driving with faulty brake lights leaves you liable for any damages incurred as you are responsible for ensuring your lights are working properly before driving on a public road. You may also find yourself getting ticketed and having to pay fines.
Changing brake light toyota rav4 2004 drivers#
Without functioning brake lights you will easily get rear ended as the drivers behind you will not know when you are slowing down. Faulty switches in turn prevent your car’s brake lights from working properly. These switches are very small and tend to wear out or fail after extended use. The brake lights of your car are controlled by switches connected to the brake pedal underneath the steering wheel.
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