How to Replace a Car Brake Light Switch (2025 Beginner's Guide)

Have you ever pressed your brake pedal only to realize the brake lights aren’t turning on—and wondered if you could fix it yourself?

Brake light switch failures are far more common than most drivers think, yet replacing this tiny component is often much easier than expected. So instead of spending money and time at a repair shop, why not learn how to replace it on your own?

Can I Replace a Car Brake Light Switch by Myself?

Absolutely! Replacing a car brake light switch is a perfectly feasible DIY project, and for most car models, it's even simpler than replacing a taillight bulb. Many car owners do this at home. It's usually quite simple, as the switch is typically mounted above the brake pedal and secured with clips or nuts.

However, success depends on your car model, your DIY skills, and the tools you have.

5 Steps to Replacing a Car Brake Light Switch

Step 1: Preparation

1. Confirm the Fault: Ensure it's a brake light switch problem. Have someone help you check if all brake lights (including the high-mounted brake light) completely don't light up when you press the brake. If only one doesn't light up, it might be a bulb or wiring issue.
2. Purchase Correct Parts:
   • Find the part number: Remove the old switch, note down the part number on it, and purchase from auto parts stores or online. This is the most accurate method.
   • Provide vehicle information: If you can't remove it in advance, tell the auto parts dealer your vehicle's exact year, model, and displacement.
3. Prepare Tools:
   • Basic tools: Flathead screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, pliers
   • May need: Socket wrench set (specific size varies by vehicle)
   • Optional but recommended: Phone (for taking photos), flashlight, multimeter (for circuit testing)

Step 2: Locate the Brake Light Switch

1. Location: The switch is almost always located at the top of the brake pedal. You need to get into the driver's seat, lie on your back with your head toward the interior and feet outward, looking up at the brake pedal.
2. Appearance: It's usually a small plastic square or round box with a retractable push rod and an electrical connector.

Step 3: Remove the Old Switch

1. Disconnect the Battery (Important safety step!):
   • Open the hood, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (usually marked with "-" and black). Use a wrench to loosen the nut and move the cable away. This step prevents short circuits or electric shock.
2. Disconnect the Electrical Connector:
   • Find the electrical connector on the switch, usually with a clip on the side. Press the clip with your finger, then smoothly pull the connector out.
3. Remove the Switch Body:
   • Rotary type: This is the most common type. Hold the switch body with your hand, rotate it counterclockwise by a certain angle (usually 90 degrees), then you can remove it from the bracket.
   • Clip type: Check if there are clips on both sides of the switch, gently pry them open with a screwdriver or pinch the clips with your hand, then pull it out.
   • Bolt type (less common): May require using a wrench to remove a fixing nut or bolt.

Tip: Before removal, take a photo with your phone to record the switch's installation direction and wiring for reference when installing the new switch.

Step 4: Install the New Switch

1. Preparation: Compare the new switch with the old one to confirm it's the exact same model.
2. Reset the Push Rod: The new switch's push rod might be extended. Aim it at the installation hole, then gently push it toward the switch body until it clicks into place. This step is crucial to put the switch in the correct initial position.
3. Install the Switch:
   • Place the switch back into the installation position and secure it in the reverse order of removal (clockwise rotation, snapping the clips, or tightening the bolt).
4. Connect the Wires: Align the electrical connector with the interface until you hear a "click" indicating it's securely connected.

Step 5: Testing and Finishing Up

1. Connect the Battery: Return to the hood, reconnect the battery negative cable, and tighten the nut.
2. Initial Test:
   • Without starting the vehicle, turn the key to the "ON" position (power on but engine off).
   • Press the brake pedal while going outside to check if all brake lights illuminate normally.
   • Release the pedal and confirm the brake lights turn off accordingly.
3. Functional Test:
   • Start the engine and test the brake lights again.
   • Try shifting gears (many car models require pressing the brake to shift), confirming this function also works normally.
4. Final Check: Ensure all tools have been removed and no parts were left in the cabin during installation.

Precautions for Replacing a Brake Light Switch

• Safety First: Always disconnect the battery before operation to avoid short circuit risks.
• Don't Force It: If a component is stuck, don't use brute force; check for hidden clips or screws.
• Part Compatibility: Make sure the new switch is completely identical to the old one.
• If the Problem Persists: If you've replaced the switch but the brake lights still don't work, it might be a fuse, wiring, or the brake light itself. In this case, seek professional help.

Conclusion

For most car owners, replacing a brake light switch is a very low-cost repair (the part usually costs around $5–$15 USD), takes very little time (about 15–30 minutes), and is a very satisfying DIY project. As long as you stay patient, work carefully, and follow basic safety steps, you can absolutely handle the replacement yourself!

If you're planning to replace your brake light switch, choosing a reliable part is just as important as doing the job correctly.

At Losun, we specialize in manufacturing high-quality automotive switches — including brake light switches, turn signal switches, window lift switches, and more.

We offer OEM and custom manufacturing services, ensuring every switch meets strict performance and safety standards. Whether you're a distributor, repair shop, or automotive brand, Losun provides stable quality, competitive pricing, and fast delivery.

Need dependable brake light switches? Contact Losun today and get professional OEM support for your project.

Related content recommendations

How to Replace a Brake Light Switch

Brake Light Switch Replacement | Wrench

A Collection of Videos on Replacing Car Brake Light Switches

How to Replace Brake Light Switch 2006-2014 Honda Ridgeline

How to Replace Brake Light Switch 2012-2018 Ford Focus

How to Replace Brake Light Switch 2014-2019 Toyota Corolla