Brake lights not working

[Jimbo1982]

Hi there, I have a 1996 Ford Freda and the brake lights have stopped working. I have checked the fuses, bulbs and rear light cluster wiring and determined that the switch is working but that power is not getting to the rear light clusters (all other lights are ok so the earth must be ok).

The brake light switch is working as there is voltage at the fuse when the pedal is pressed (and the gearshift releases from P).

Just wondered if this is a common fault and if anyone has any suggestions?

Are there different outputs from the switch for the lights/gearshift - is it worth replacing the switch?

Many thanks in advance..

[g8dhe]

The will always be +12v at the fuse, its not switched, nor does it have any involvement with the gear stick.

The brake switch F1-01 simply closes and supplies power to the the 3 sets of lights.

[Bob]

As always Geoff's info is spot on.

I'd put a meter on the switch, check both sides.

[Jimbo1982]

Thanks for the advice guys. Is the brake interlock on the gearshift mechanical then? I'd made the assumption it was electrical....

I'll have a look at the switch and test it properly

[Bob]

Pretty sure its a mehanical cable.

[teenmal]

Thanks for the advice guys. Is the brake interlock on the gearshift mechanical then? I'd made the assumption it was electrical....

I'll have a look at the switch and test it properly

The inhibitor switch on the gear box is electrical, but as has been said it has no relation (even distant) to the rear brake lights.

Simply remove the brake switch connector and bridge the contacts, the connector has a constant live supply.

[Jimbo1982]

Very late I know, but thought I'd update you all that it was indeed the brake light switch. Got an MX5 one from Ebay for about £7 and all was well again

[mikeonb4c]

Very late I know, but thought I'd update you all that it was indeed the brake light switch. Got an MX5 one from Ebay for about £7 and all was well again

Glad it got sorted

[Bob]

Good to know that fits, thanks.