Replace the brake light switch located on the brake pedal assembly to restore brake light operation and ensure proper vehicle safety systems functionality.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Brake light switch × 1 — Use OEM Kia part 93810-1M000 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Turn ignition completely off and remove key or fob from vehicle
3. Open driver's door and adjust seat fully rearward for maximum access
4. Allow adequate time for any heated components under dash to cool if vehicle was recently driven
5. Test current brake light operation to confirm switch failure before beginning work

Procedure

1. 1

   Access brake pedal assembly
   Position yourself in the driver's footwell with flashlight. Locate the brake light switch mounted on the bracket above the brake pedal arm. The switch has a plunger that contacts the pedal arm and an electrical connector with 4 wires (typically two white wires and two other colors). Remove the lower dash panel if necessary for better access, using trim tools to release clips without breaking them.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the brake light switch. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight away from the switch body. You may need to use needle-nose pliers to depress the tab if access is limited. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
3. 3

   Remove old brake light switch
   The switch is held by a rotating lock mechanism or bayonet mount. Rotate the switch body counterclockwise approximately 30-45 degrees while pulling gently outward. On some variants, squeeze the locking tabs on the sides of the switch body while pulling straight out from the mounting bracket. Note the orientation and position of the switch plunger relative to the brake pedal stop pad for installation reference.
   ⚠The pedal stop pad (small rubber bumper) may fall when switch is removed. Keep track of this component as it sets proper pedal height.
4. 4

   Inspect mounting bracket and pedal stop
   Examine the mounting bracket for cracks or damage. Check that the pedal stop pad is present and in good condition. If the rubber stop is worn, cracked, or missing, replace it before installing the new switch. This pad is critical for proper switch operation and pedal feel.
5. 5

   Prepare new brake light switch
   Compare new switch to old switch to verify correct replacement part. Check that the plunger moves freely and returns to extended position when released. Some replacement switches come with a locking pin or shipping clip that must be removed after installation - verify installation instructions included with the part.
6. 6

   Install new brake light switch
   Insert the new switch into the mounting bracket with the plunger facing toward the brake pedal stop pad. Align the tabs or locking mechanism and rotate clockwise (or push firmly until it clicks, depending on design) to secure. The switch should be firmly seated with no lateral movement. Ensure the plunger contacts the pedal stop pad when the brake pedal is at rest.
   ⚠Do not press the brake pedal during installation. Some switches require the pedal to be at rest position for proper calibration.
7. 7

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the switch terminals until you hear or feel a distinct click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked in place. Remove any shipping pins or locking clips from the switch plunger if present per manufacturer instructions.
8. 8

   Test brake light operation
   Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine). Have an assistant observe the rear brake lights, or position a reflective surface behind the vehicle. Press the brake pedal gently and verify both brake lights illuminate. Release pedal and verify lights turn off completely. Repeat several times to confirm consistent operation.
   ⚠️If brake lights do not operate correctly, do not drive the vehicle. Recheck installation and electrical connection before proceeding.
9. 9

   Verify additional systems
   With ignition ON, verify that the brake pedal position is detected by the vehicle computer: attempt to shift out of Park (transmission should release with pedal pressed), and verify push-button start operates normally (if equipped). Check that cruise control can be set and cancels when brake is applied during a test drive.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any lower dash panels removed during access, ensuring all clips are properly seated
2. Return driver's seat to normal position
3. Clear any diagnostic trouble codes if a code reader was used during diagnosis

Verification

• Confirm both brake lights illuminate when pedal is pressed and turn off when released
• Verify brake lights function in all lighting modes (running lights on and off)
• Test that transmission shift interlock releases properly when brake pedal is pressed
• Confirm push-button start system recognizes brake pedal input (if equipped)
• Test cruise control engagement and brake cancellation during safe test drive
• Check for any dashboard warning lights related to brake system or stop lamp malfunction

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