Brake Light Switch Problems of Ford Explorer

Brake light switch inoperative (stays stuck on).

See all problems of the 2002 Ford Explorer 🔎.

Noticed the other day the brake light were stuck "on" after exiting the vehicle and only after tapping them a few times did they turn off. The only place to get a replacement brake on / off switch is via the dealer for approx $95. 00, installation extra. He told me he sells alot of these for Explorers, maybe it needs to go on the "recall list". It potentially will cause an accident if they were to stay on and then have a need to stop quickly the person behind you would not see brake lights come on and rearend your vehicle.

See all problems of the 2003 Ford Explorer 🔎.

About 8 - 10 months ago we started having trouble with the speed control shutting off. We also noticed that the brake lights were on sometimes when the vehicle was parked. Finally, Dec 31st, we discovered that the battery had been fully discharged overnight because the brake lights had come on. The part responsible was the brake light switch, which cost $118. 00 parts and labor. The exact same problem resulted in recall NHTSA 04v106000 on the 2003 Ford taurus. Our vehicle is a 2003 Ford Explorer.

: the contact stated the brake light switch had malfunctioned. The original switch was no longer available. Updated 12/28/06.

Brake light switch fails to activate until moderate brake pedal foot pressure is applied; resulting in delayed/inadequate brake light activation and difficulty disengaging gear selector from park. Also, speed control will not turn off until pressing hard enough to engage secondary/backup disconnect on speed control. Initial application of brake will result in vehicle attempting to maintain speed, incurring increased throttle application and auto transmission down shifting. Removal and observation of the switch action appears to show the mechanical interface between plunger and contacts results in contacts opening wider in the initial travel of the switch before actually closing, resulting in delayed closing of the switch.

The break lights on my car get stuck on, I have had it happen to me three times, I have taken it to the dealer when I was in pensacola and had to pay to have it fixed. . . It seems to be the sensor attached to the break pedal.

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.

See all problems of the 1999 Ford Explorer 🔎.

Brake light switch malfunctioned due to a wiring problem.

See all problems of the 1998 Ford Explorer 🔎.

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.