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Brake lights do not come on when pressing the pedal: Causes & How to Fix It

If your vehicle is showing brake lights do not come on when pressing the pedal, here are the most likely causes and the parts you'll need to fix each one.

Most likely causes

Faulty Brake Light Switchurgent

The mechanical switch located behind the brake pedal can wear out or fail internally over time, preventing the electrical signal from reaching the brake lights when the pedal is depressed.

Burned Out Brake Light Bulbsurgent

It is surprisingly common for one bulb to burn out unnoticed, followed eventually by the others. This results in a sudden realization that no brake lights are working at all.

Blown Brake Light Fuseurgent

A power surge, aging fuse, or a short circuit somewhere in the wiring can blow the dedicated fuse for the brake light circuit, instantly cutting power to all brake lamps.

Misadjusted Brake Light Switchurgent

If the brake light switch was recently replaced or the pedal assembly was worked on, the switch may be improperly adjusted or seated, failing to trigger when the pedal moves.

Damaged Wiring or Bad Ground Connectionurgent

Corroded wiring, a damaged harness, or a poor ground connection in the rear of the vehicle can prevent electrical current from reaching the light assemblies.

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