Brake lights - phantom switch on?

Withavee · #1 06-28-2014, 06:59 AM

After removing the very old and faulty alarm/immobiliser I am back to the original issue.

On some occasions after I have parked up and locked up (and after doing a walk round to be sure all lights are off) the rear brake lights will come on while I am away from the vehicle. This sometimes happens a few minutes after leaving the car and at other times it might be some hours (ie the middle of the night!).

Anyone else had this? I have crawled into the footwell and there seems to be the correct gaps round the brake switch and the peddle. Next thought was to visit the local Subaru dealer who want $150 to plug in their diagnostics computer. I could live with this if I had any faith in their abilities, but first impressions not good.

I can not find a pattern to when the lights come on, sometimes after a drive, sometimes when just getting something out of the car!!

Any thoughts welcome.

Peter

svxfiles · #2 06-28-2014, 09:30 AM

Peter, I would just buy a brake light switch and install it and see what happens.
The switch has to be no more than $20.00 USD.
As far as the person who wants $150.00 to hook up a "computer",
decorum prohibits my true responce....

GFY comes to mind

Conn SVX · #3 06-28-2014, 10:03 AM

Disconnect the switch lock the car and wait. Try this a few times. If it only comes on when it is plugged in and never when not it is the switch. I would buy a new one anyway. There could be something broke inside allowing the contacts to close. That will be $150 you can send it to my Pay Pal account <

> almost a stupid as the Subaru dealer.

Withavee · #4 07-05-2014, 04:50 AM

$27 and 45 minutes of contortion under the dash and I THINK I've cured it! Watch this space, but a new switch fitted wednesday and so far so good.

ShaneHobson · #5 07-06-2014, 02:50 AM

Here's a tip.
Spend 10 mins pulling the drivers seat out before doing under dash work.
Saves a lot of back strain.

Withavee · #6 07-06-2014, 08:29 AM

Didn't think of that, Shane. Always thought of seat out as longer than that. It probably took me 10 minutes to pile up some timber and foam by the drivers door so I was laying about level with the sill rather than on the floor - Next time :-)