Two problems related to brake light switch have been reported for the 1999 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Brake lights are unreliable and could lead to a collision. In particular, the brake lights may not work during gentle braking or when stopped with foot still on brake pedal. Free pedal height is 4. 75 inches, brake lights come on at 4. 625 inches, go off when any pressure is released above 4 inches. As you can see, anytime the brake pedal comes up between 4 and 4. 625 inches, such as when letting up slightly to make a smooth stop, the brake lights are off. I often find myself sitting at stops with my foot on the brake and no brake lights, a very hazardous condition. Dealer has replaced switch twice, all three switches exhibit same behavior. On last replacement, dealer said they checked several other Explorers, they all do the same.
The location of the third brake light is too high, and does not have the same visual impact as a more eye level location would have.