Why wont my brake lights turn off in my Ford?
If your brake lights in your Ford vehicle are not turning off, it could be due to a few potential issues. The most common causes include a faulty brake light switch, a problem with the wiring, or a stuck brake pedal. Let's explore these potential problems and how to troubleshoot and fix the issue.
Faulty Brake Light Switch
The brake light switch is a crucial component that signals the brake lights to turn on when you press the brake pedal. If this switch is malfunctioning, it can cause the brake lights to stay illuminated even when the pedal is not pressed. 1 To check if the brake light switch is the issue, you can try tapping or gently pressing on the switch while the engine is running. If the lights turn off, then the switch likely needs to be replaced.
Wiring Issues
Another potential cause is a problem with the wiring in the brake light circuit. There could be a short circuit, loose connection, or damaged wiring that is keeping the brake lights on. 2 You can inspect the wiring harness and connections around the brake pedal and lights to look for any visible damage or loose fittings. If you find any issues, you may need to repair or replace the affected wiring.
Stuck Brake Pedal
In some cases, a stuck or malfunctioning brake pedal can also cause the brake lights to remain illuminated. 3 This could be due to a problem with the brake pedal mechanism or the brake booster. Try gently pressing and releasing the brake pedal to see if it's sticking. If the pedal feels stuck or unresponsive, you may need to have a mechanic inspect and repair the brake system.
Troubleshooting Steps
- Check the brake light switch for proper operation and replace if faulty.
- Inspect the wiring harness and connections around the brake pedal and lights for any damage or loose fittings.
- Test the brake pedal to ensure it's not sticking or malfunctioning.
- If the issue persists, consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
Addressing the root cause of the brake light issue is important for both safety and legal compliance. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can hopefully resolve the problem and get your Ford's brake lights working properly again.
What to do if the brake lights won't turn off?
Fixing this problem is as simple as replacing the switch, which is typically located on the backside of the brake pedal.
Will brake lights drain the battery?
Tip: When your brake lights stay on while your car is stopped, it can drain your battery. It's important to resolve brake light issues right away so as to not drain your battery.
What causes brake lights to stay on on a 2015 Ford Fusion?
In documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Ford explains that repeated exposure to high temperatures and humidity can cause a rubber bumper to degrade and separate from the brake pedal. That can leave the brake lights permanently lit.
Why are the brake lights not turning off in my Ford?
If you have help, try pulling the brake pedal up a bit and see if the lights go out. If they do, then try backing the brake light switch off a bit. This is up under the dash on the brake pedal.
