Brake Light Switch

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

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Brake light switch × 1 — Mopar 68052421AA or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Consider disconnecting negative battery terminal to prevent electrical shorts (optional but recommended)
4. Adjust driver's seat fully rearward to maximize working room
5. Open driver's door fully for access and lighting
6. Allow adequate time for any heated surfaces to cool if vehicle was recently operated

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate the brake light switch
   Position yourself in the driver's footwell. Using a flashlight, locate the brake light switch mounted on the bracket above the brake pedal arm. The switch is a small cylindrical component with an electrical connector and plunger that contacts the brake pedal arm. On 2014 Ram 2500 models, the switch is positioned near the top of the pedal assembly.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the brake light switch. Press the locking tab or squeeze the release mechanism (design varies) and pull the connector straight off the switch. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If access is difficult, use needle nose pliers to depress the locking tab while pulling the connector.
3. 3

   Remove the old brake light switch
   The switch is typically held by a twist-lock mechanism or retaining clip. For twist-lock type: rotate the switch counterclockwise approximately 30 degrees and pull straight out from the mounting bracket. For clip type: depress the retaining tabs on either side of the switch body and pull straight out. Note the orientation and position of the switch for proper installation of the replacement.
4. 4

   Inspect mounting bracket and pedal arm
   Examine the mounting bracket for damage, cracks, or worn retaining features. Check the brake pedal arm contact point for wear or damage. Verify the pedal returns fully to the rest position with no binding. Clean any debris from the mounting area with a shop towel.
5. 5

   Prepare new brake light switch
   Remove new switch from packaging and verify it matches the original design. Some switches come with the plunger fully extended and include a retaining clip that breaks away during first pedal application. Do NOT depress the plunger before installation if it has this design. Compare mounting features to ensure correct part.
6. 6

   Install new brake light switch
   Align the new switch with the mounting bracket in the same orientation as the original. For twist-lock: insert straight into bracket and rotate clockwise approximately 30 degrees until it locks. For clip type: push firmly straight in until retaining tabs click into place. Ensure the switch plunger is positioned to contact the brake pedal arm when pedal is at rest position. The switch should be secure with no wobble.
7. 7

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector onto the new switch until you hear or feel a positive click. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked. Ensure wiring is not pinched, kinked, or contacting moving pedal components.
8. 8

   Perform initial function test
   If battery was disconnected, reconnect negative terminal. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start engine). Have an assistant observe brake lights or position yourself to view reflection in garage door or window. With pedal at rest, brake lights should be OFF. Press brake pedal slowly and verify brake lights illuminate immediately when pedal begins to move. Release pedal and verify lights turn OFF completely. Repeat test 5-10 times to ensure consistent operation.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect negative battery terminal if it was disconnected
2. Return driver's seat to normal operating position
3. Verify no tools or parts remain in footwell area
4. Check that brake pedal returns fully to rest position without interference

Verification

• With ignition ON, verify brake lights are OFF when pedal is at rest (check for constant-on condition that will drain battery)
• Press brake pedal and verify all three brake lights illuminate (two rear, one center high-mount)
• Verify brake lights turn OFF immediately when pedal is released with no delay or flickering
• Test cruise control if equipped - it should disengage when brake pedal is pressed (cruise control uses same switch signal)
• Test shift interlock function: with ignition ON and transmission in PARK, verify you cannot shift out of park without pressing brake pedal
• Perform road test in safe area to verify brake lights function properly during actual braking, observing through rear-view mirror or with assistant
• If any function does not work correctly, stop vehicle immediately and recheck switch installation and electrical connection
• Check for diagnostic trouble codes related to brake switch circuit if any electrical issues persist

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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