What is a brake button? What’s the function of the brake switch? How do you detect brake switch failure? What are the signs of brake switch failure? How do I replace my brake switch ?….?
What is Brake Switch?
Also known as the brake switch, or simply the “brake sensOr” , “brake switch” or “Brake light switch.” The brake pedal mechanism is connected to a small component called. It serves two primary functions. It’s responsible for two main functions. First, it turns on the rear brake lamps when you press the brake pedal. Second, it informs the on-board computer PCM / ECM/ ECU that braking has taken place.
The brake switch can be operated in two positions by a simple spring-loaded electronic switch. The brake pedal is depressed and the spring pushes it inward, activating the electrical circuit, which causes the brake lights to turn off. The circuit is interrupted when the foot is taken off the pedal.
These actions are performed in the vehicle when the brake pedal is depressed.
- – Vehicles with Start-Stop technology allow you to start the vehicle
- – Flashing brake lights
- – Deactivation cruise control
- – Stopping fuel from being sent to the injectors when you decelerate
- – Activation the emergency brake assist (ABS / BASS-EBA).
- – On vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, move the gear lever between the “P” or “N” positions
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Brake Failure?
- – The brake lights remain on, even when the pedal is not pressed.
- – The brake lights don’t turn on even when the brake pedal has been pressed
- – If the brake switch is not in its active position, it will send a false message to the PCM indicating that the brake was applied. This can reduce the engine’s traction by reducing fuel injections.
- If they do not receive a signal from a brake sensor, emergency brake support systems such ABS or BAS-EBA cannot be activated. The instrument panel may activate the brake warning light, ABS warning lamp, or check engine light in this situation.
- Modern vehicles require that the brake pedal be depressed before starting the engine. If the brake switch is not working properly, the vehicle may not start when it is pressed.
- Activated cruise control can be deactivated in most cases by pressing the brake pedal. The PCM can disable cruise control completely if it detects fault with the brake switch.
- If the brake switch fails in vehicles with automatic transmission, the gear will be locked. It is important to press the brake pedal in order to move the gear lever into the “P”, “N” positions. The brake switch may fail if the control unit is unable to detect the brake pedal having been depressed. This will lock the gear in its current position.
If the brake lights aren’t on, drivers behind you will not know that you’re slowing down. It can be confusing if your brake lights aren’t on. In both cases, there is a safety risk and the fault must be fixed as soon as possible.
What causes brake switch failure?
Displacement of the brake switch is the leading cause of brake switch malfunction. Brake switch displacement is rare. In this case, the brake lights may not turn off if the key is misaligned or falls out of its slots. If this happens, you will need to repair the brake switch.
Circuit problems like loose connectors or damaged wiring are also causes of failure. It could also fail because of corrosion, oxidation or lubrication problems, as well as rupture, short circuits, and contamination.
The brake switch, like all electrical components, has a limited lifetime. Even if you have a mechanical piston-style brake switch, internal components can become worn over time.
Where can I find the Brake Switch? How to Change the Brake Switch?
The brake switch is located on the dashboard’s underside, in contact with brake pedal. It can be found at the junction of brake pedal and pedal. You will need to look up from the mat in order to find the brake sensor. The brake switch can be clipped to its housing or attached using a screw.
The key must be rotated 90º clockwise to release and pop out, then the socket must be removed. This maneuver is not easy to perform in tight spaces. After that, the new brake lever of the required specification is installed into the socket and secured in place.
Some cars require a specific procedure to remove and install the brake light switches. It is important to correctly install the brake light switch. If you do not, it will not work properly and could even cause damage. The clearance between brake pedal and switch in some cars must be adjusted.
