Symptoms
- Brake light stays illuminated even with foot off the pedal
- Cruise control may not work properly
- Battery drains faster than normal
- Brake pedal may feel slightly different than usual
Likely causes
- CommonMisadjusted or stuck brake light switchThis switch near the top of the brake pedal can become misaligned or stuck in the 'pressed' position.
- PossibleBrake pedal not returning fully due to a mechanical issueSomething physically preventing the pedal from fully releasing can keep the switch triggered.
- Less commonWiring short keeping the circuit energizedA short circuit could bypass the switch and keep the lights powered.
What to do
- Check if the brake pedal fully returns to its resting position after being pressed.
- Locate the brake light switch near the top of the brake pedal under the dash.
- Check if the switch appears misaligned, not fully seated, or physically stuck.
- Try gently adjusting or reseating the switch according to your vehicle's specifications, if accessible.
- Avoid leaving the issue unaddressed, since it can drain your battery and confuse drivers behind you.
- Disconnect the brake light fuse temporarily only as a last resort if you must drive immediately, but get it fixed as soon as possible.
- Have a shop replace the brake light switch if adjustment doesn't resolve the issue.
- Get the brake pedal mechanism checked if the switch itself tests fine but the pedal isn't returning fully.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
Brake light switchSearch: “brake light switch for [your car make model year]”
When to call a pro
A shop can quickly adjust or replace the brake light switch, which is a common and inexpensive fix for this issue.
Safety
Use caution
A brake light stuck on can confuse or annoy drivers behind you and drains your battery; get this fixed promptly rather than driving with it.