What does a brake pedal switch do?

The brake pedal switch is a small device usually attached to the brake pedal mechanism. The brake pedal switch serves two major functions; it turns on the brake lights when a driver presses the brake pedal. It also sends a signal to your car’s computer that the brakes have been applied.

The brake pedal switch plays an important role in most modern cars. Many vehicle systems including push-button start, anti-lock brakes and vehicle stability control cannot operate if a brake pedal switch is not working properly.

Toyota

The Toyota Motor Corporation is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer, established in 1937, over 80 years ago.

How popular is Toyota in the United Kingdom?

Toyota was the first manufacturer to produce more than 10million vehicles a year, and it has continued to do so since 2012. There are currently 1.7million on the roads in the UK—a number that has shown consistent growth since their introduction to the UK market.

High-quality motoring—right across the board

Toyota’s current range features luxury saloons, hatchbacks and SUVs, all of which are receiving the steady design upgrade from what were once sensible and steady looking vehicles, into sleeker looking executive sports lines, capable of turning heads at every junction.

Toyota: Market leaders in all-electric and hybrid motoring

Worldwide, Toyota is the market leader in hybrid electric vehicle sales. It’s introduction of the Prius in 1997, the first commercially mass-produced vehicle of its kind, set them on their way as leaders in the field. The UK is no exception, as there are over 80k Prius models on our roads.

There’s more to Toyota than good economy and sensible motoring

As much as the modern market leans towards family SUV motoring and super efficient hybrid fuel economy, don’t be fooled into thinking Toyota is stuck into a single groove.

For those who want more excitement than economy from their driving experience, Toyota makes a selection of cars with much more clout than their sensible city options.

Grab a Toyota GR Supra and you’ll be propelled from 0–62mph in 4.3 seconds using every ounce of its 335bhp. If you want a car that was built for fun and have a spare £52k to lose, then why not put one on your shopping list? As with other Toyota models, it offers great value for the amount of car you’ll be getting.

How often should a brake pedal switch need replacing?

Brake pedal switches are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, however because they are in constant use they can wear out over time. The frequent pressing of the switch can cause the internal components to wear out and eventually fail, how quickly this happens will depend on the quality of the parts and how often you use your vehicle.

As soon as you suspect there may be a problem with this switch you should have it replaced - it is important in maintaining a high degree of safety while on the road.

The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT

Failing or broken brake lights are not only dangerous for yourself and other road users, but they’re also illegal in the UK. By law your car must have two working brake lights, or you risk being pulled over by the police and potentially fined.

The brake pedal switch is checked as part of an MOT, therefore if it's not functioning as it should, your car will fail the test. To save yourself time and money you should have your switch replaced if you suspect there may be a fault.

What causes a brake pedal switch to break?

Brake pedal switch failure is not a common problem and is not part of regular car maintenance. However, like any car part it can fail or wear out at any time and will need to be replaced as soon as possible when this occurs.

What are the signs of a bad brake pedal switch?

Usually, there a few signs you can look for:

• Brake lights stop working or work intermittently

• Brake lights stay permanently on, even when the pedal is not pressed

• Check Engine or ABS system warning light comes on

• Systems such as anti-lock brakes, push start or vehicle stability control aren’t working as they should

How often should you replace your brake pedal switch?

For the most part, the brake pedal switch is built to last the lifetime of your car. Generally, these switches will only wear out due to the continuous use that they get. Being constantly pushed can eventually wear out the internal components of this switch. As soon as you suspect there may be a problem with this switch you should have it replaced - it is important in maintaining a high degree of safety while on the road.

What happens during a brake pedal switch replacement?

During the repair our certified mechanics will:

• First inspect the brake light system and corresponding switch.

• If necessary, the mechanic will replace the faulty brake pedal switch.

• Advise if any related parts need to be replaced or repaired.

• Test the lights again to ensure they function properly and the switch has been installed correctly.

What is the average life of a brake pedal switch?

Brake pedal switches are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle, however because they are in constant use they can wear out over time. The frequent pressing of the switch can cause the internal components to wear out and eventually fail, how quickly this happens will depend on the quality of the parts and how often you use your vehicle.

Can you drive with a broken brake pedal switch?

No, you shouldn’t drive with a failing brake pedal switch. Brake lights are a vital safety feature on your car, without them you pose a risk to yourself and other road users. A bad brake pedal switch can also prevent other systems in your car from working, such as push button start and anti-lock brakes.

It’s also important to note that failing or broken brake lights are not only dangerous but also illegal in the UK. By law your car must have two working brake lights, or you risk being pulled over by the police and potentially fined.