Volvo Bad Brake Light Switch Symptoms & Replacement

The brake light switch is a crucial component of the braking system in a Volvo vehicle, as it is responsible for turning on the brake lights when the brakes are applied. If the brake light switch fails, it can result in several issues, including warning lights on the dashboard, decreased braking performance, and even a complete loss of braking ability. It’s essential to be aware of the symptoms of a bad brake light switch and to replace it promptly if it fails. In this article, we will discuss the common symptoms of a bad brake light switch in a Volvo and provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace it. Whether you are a professional mechanic or a do-it-yourselfer, this guide will give you the information you need to keep your Volvo braking system in good working order.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a bad brake light switch on a Volvo can range from the brake lights not working to the car refusing to go in gear.

• Brake lights don’t work.
• Cruise control won’t engage.
• Erratic automatic transmission shifting
• Shifter won’t come out of Park.
• The engine won’t start.
• Brake switch high input code P0573
• Service engine light on.
• Brake warning light illuminated
• The brake light stays on

How to Replace Volvo Brake Light Switch

What you will need

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• Volvo brake light switch
• Torx socket set
• Ratchet wrench

Procedure

1. Park the Volvo and set the parking brakes.
2. Remove the panel under the dashboard on the driver’s side. It is held in place with several T25 Torx screws. To remove the panel, you must pull it towards the back and lower it.
3. Locate the brake light switch.
4. Disconnect the electrical connector by pressing on the connector and pulling it out.
5. Next, you need to remove the brake light switch. Slide the white collar forward to allow the retaining clips to be released.
6. When applicable, adjust the new brake switch to match the length of the old one.
7. Install the new brake switch on the mounting brake. Ensure the switch plunger is fully extended.
8. Connect the electrical connector.

Verify the brake lights are working correctly. If the brake lights stay on constantly, remove the brake light switch and adjust it.

Troubleshooting

The YOUCANIC Full System Scanner can also diagnose brake light switch problems on your Volvo vehicle. This scanner also can read and clear codes through every control module of a Volvo vehicle.

I replaced the brake light switch, but why am I still getting the P0573 cruise control/brake light switch, MIL on?

• This code may also be triggered by the brake travel sensor installed in the booster. Check the connection to the brake booster sensor and replace it if necessary. Other problems that can trigger this code include a damaged wire harness to the brake sensor.

The brake lights won’t turn on unless I press the pedal hard.

• This may be due to the brake light switch needing to be adjusted. To fix the problem, access the brake light switch. Remove it and adust it. Newer Volvo models have self-adjusting brake light switches, which means the only remedy would be to replace the brake light switch.

What is the brake light switch used for?

• When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake light switch activates the brake lights. A brake light switch is also used to switch the cruise control OFF. Also, it is used to unlock the shift interlock solenoid in the gear shifter.

Replaced brake light switch, but brake lights still don’t work?

• Check the rear light warning module. First, inspect it for water damage. If there is no visible damage, use a Volvo scanner to read fault codes. The module is located in the rear side panel, luggage compartment.

We hope you find the Volvo Bad Brake Light Switch Symptoms & Replacement helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Volvo.