Melanie Reiff
Updated on Nov 16, 2022
A mechanic can help replace your brake light switch, which turns on your brake lights after the brake pedal is pushed, if the internal electronics are worn down or damaged. The switch will need replacing if all your brake lights go out at once or you are unable to shift out of park.
Properly functioning brake lights are incredibly important and help keep everyone safe on the road—which is why the car insurance comparison shopping and broker app Jerry has put together this comprehensive page on everything you need to know about getting your brake light switch replaced.
The exact cost varies between different Laforza models. For example, newer vehicle models are usually made with more expensive materials, so recent or high-end models will cost more, especially if your service requires a part replacement. Use the table below to estimate the cost for your own vehicle.
| Car | Total Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Average Dealer Price | Estimated Service Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1998 | $59 | $0 | $59 | $59 | 0.5h |
1990 | $59 | $0 | $59 | $59 | 0.5h |
1999 | $59 | $0 | $59 | $59 | 0.5h |
1994 | $59 | $0 | $59 | $59 | 0.5h |
1995 | $59 | $0 | $59 | $59 | 0.5h |
1991 | $59 | $0 | $59 | $59 | 0.5h |
What is a brake light switch replacement?
For your car’s brake lights to switch on, the plunger in the brake light switch must come into contact with the lever in the brake pedal assembly. When you push down on the brake pedal and the plunger in the switch depresses, the contacts in the brake light close, allowing electricity to flow into the lights and turn them on.
If you think your brake light switch needs to be replaced, a mechanic will first use a multimeter to test the switch and determine whether the switch itself is defective. In some cases, it may be that another component in the circuit is at fault.
How to replace a brake light switch
If the mechanic finds that the switch isn’t working properly, they will:
- Unthread it from the mounting near the brake pedal assembly
- Thread a new switch onto the mounting, adjust it, and lock it into place
- Test operation of the switch by depressing the brake pedal. Instant illumination of the brake lights means the switch is working properly
A full replacement may not always be necessary. Sometimes it may just be the case that the switch is out of alignment or has a loose contact, situations that can be adjusted without a replacement.
When do I need to replace my brake light switch?
The most obvious indicator that your brake light switch needs to be replaced is if both brake lights stop working at the same time (if only one of your brake lights is out, the issue is either a bulb, the bulb socket, or the brake light circuit).
You may also need to replace your brake light switch if you’re unable to shift out of park while your foot is on the brake. This is because the brake light switch is wired into the shift interlock mechanism.
In most cases, a brake light switch will only need to be replaced due to natural wear and tear on its electronics, which usually takes place over a long period of time.
How important is it to replace my brake light switch?
If your brake light switch isn’t working properly, replacing it promptly is incredibly important. Your brake lights must be able to function normally to alert other drivers when you are slowing down or stopping.
Malfunctioning brake lights can lead to a (costly) collision if you have to slow down suddenly.
How to find the best deals on car insurance
Adhering to a regular maintenance schedule is essential for every car owner, and so is keeping your car protected with the right car insurance policy.
Jerry makes shopping for affordable car insurance a breeze and saves the average user $887 a year!
All you have to do is answer a 45-second questionnaire, and Jerry will find your current insurance policy and give you dozens of competitive quotes to compare. When you fall in love with a new low rate, Jerry will even help you cancel your existing policy and switch over!
Keep in mind that your location is another factor that determines the final cost of repairs. Areas with higher cost of living will usually have more expensive car repair services, especially if there’s less local competition. Check out the table below for an estimate of what Laforza drivers pay in different cities.
| City | Car | Total Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Average Dealer Price | Estimated Service Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1989 | $63.59 | $0 | $63.59 | $63.59 | 0.5h | |
2000 | $63.45 | $0 | $63.45 | $63.45 | 0.5h | |
1994 | $48.67 | $0 | $48.67 | $48.67 | 0.5h | |
1996 | $57.74 | $0 | $57.74 | $57.74 | 0.5h | |
1998 | $61.78 | $0 | $61.78 | $61.78 | 0.5h | |
1998 | $58.77 | $0 | $58.77 | $58.77 | 0.5h | |
1993 | $63.46 | $0 | $63.46 | $63.46 | 0.5h | |
1992 | $59.22 | $0 | $59.22 | $59.22 | 0.5h | |
1997 | $63.75 | $0 | $63.75 | $63.75 | 0.5h | |
1991 | $55 | $0 | $55 | $55 | 0.5h |
Jerry doesn’t just offer fair price repair estimates for Laforza drivers! Our team of writers has collected everything you need to know for every car. Here’s how much the repair costs for some popular cars:
| Car | Total Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Average Dealer Price | Estimated Service Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1960 | $133.58 | $15.58 | $118 | $138.25 | 1h |
1991 | $143.19 | $25.19 | $118 | $150.74 | 1h |
1980 | $133.58 | $15.58 | $118 | $138.25 | 1h |
1974 | $137.18 | $19.18 | $118 | $142.93 | 1h |
1965 | $132.38 | $14.38 | $118 | $136.69 | 1h |
1967 | $139.58 | $21.58 | $118 | $146.05 | 1h |
The cost of repairs might vary depending on which Laforza you drive, but there’s an easy way to save money for the services you need! Just download the Jerry app for help lowering your insurance premiums. In less than 45 seconds, Jerry collects all of your information from your existing insurer. Choose from competitive quotes from top insurance companies and Jerry takes care of the rest—securing your new policy and helping you cancel your old one upon request.
With an average annual savings of $887, Jerry can help you free up funds for the repairs your Laforza’s needs.
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The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.
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