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Pontiac Optima Brake Light Switch Replacement at your home or office.

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Brake Light Switch Replacement Service

How much does a Brake Light Switch Replacement cost?

On average, the cost for a Pontiac Optima Brake Light Switch Replacement is $162 with $22 for parts and $140 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1990 Pontiac OptimaL4-2.0LService typeBrake Light Switch ReplacementEstimate$199.52Shop/Dealer Price$214.25 - $250.34
1990 Pontiac OptimaL4-1.6LService typeBrake Light Switch ReplacementEstimate$190.51Shop/Dealer Price$203.47 - $238.24
1991 Pontiac OptimaL4-1.6LService typeBrake Light Switch ReplacementEstimate$190.51Shop/Dealer Price$203.50 - $238.28
Show example Pontiac Optima Brake Light Switch Replacement prices

What is the brake light switch and how does it work?

The brake light switch is a mechanical switch activated when you press the brake pedal. The switch has a plunger in it that contacts a lever in the brake pedal assembly. As that plunger is depressed when you push on the brake pedal, the contacts in the brake light switch closed and voltage flows to the brake lights — turning them on. The brake light switch is also in the circuit that controls the cruise control disengagement and the shift interlock safety feature installed on all newer cars. Failure of the brake light switch occurs due to wear on the internal electrical contacts in the switch, poor switch terminal connections, maladjustment of the switch, or damage to the brake pedal assembly.

When to consider replacing the brake light switch?

  • No brake lights. If depressing the brake pedal does not cause any of the brake lights to illuminate, the continuity of the switch will be tested. If only one brake light is out, then the issue is not the switch but rather the bulb, bulb socket or brake light circuit integrity.
  • Unable to shift out of park. The brake light switch is also wired into the shift interlock mechanism. If you are unable to shift out of park, with your foot on the brake, check to see if the brake lights will illuminate as you push the pedal. If they do not illuminate, failure of the brake light switch may be the cause of the no shift.
  • Intermittent operation of the brake lights or late operation. The brake light switch has to be in the proper position, and work consistently if the brake lights are to come on the instant you press the brake pedal. The switch can sometimes require adjustment, or the contacts may degrade, causing inconsistent operation of the switch.

How do mechanics replace the brake light switch?

  • The switch is first tested using a multimeter, including the terminal contacts to the switch, to determine if it is faulty. If the switch is functioning, the entire circuit must be tested to determine the cause of no brake lights.
  • Should the switch be judged defective, the switch is unthreaded from the mounting boss near the brake pedal assembly.
  • The new switch is threaded in and locked with an appropriate locknut once the new switch is properly adjusted.
  • The operation of the switch is tested to ensure instant illumination of the brake lights upon pressing the brake pedal.

Is it safe to drive with a brake light switch problem?

No. Should the brake light switch have failed, it is unsafe to drive the vehicle because drivers behind you will have no indication that you are slowing, intend to slow, or are stopped. Always address a failure of this type promptly to ensure your safety while driving.

When replacing the brake light switch keep in mind:

  • The mechanic will test the brake light switch directly to ensure that the issue is not elsewhere in the brake light circuit.
  • Occasionally, the issue is a maladjusted switch or a loose contact, and the mechanic can resolve the problem without switch replacement.

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Number of Pontiac Brake Light Switch Replacement services completed
55+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT Pontiac MECHANICS
800+
experts on our platform
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Meet some of our expert Pontiac mechanics

Real customer reviews from Pontiac owners like you.

Excellent Rating

(5)
Rating Summary
5
0
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5
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Matthew

34 years of experience
1438 reviews
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Matthew
34 years of experience
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by Kent
Pontiac Solstice L4-2.0L Turbo - Brake Light Switch - Williamsburg, Virginia
Matthew was amazing. He knows his stuff completely. He arrived early and knew just what to do. He has all the high tech electronic gear needed for the task. The part was in a difficult awkward position under the dash and he managed with great skill. He expertly advised me on an unrelated issue and was able to solve that problem as well Added to all that he is a friendly and good natured gentleman who was a pleasure to meet. I very highly recommend him for your automotive repair needs.

Breck

21 years of experience
681 reviews
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Breck
21 years of experience
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by John
Pontiac Sunfire L4-2.2L - Brake Light Switch - Houston, Texas
This guy knows what he is talking about.

James

32 years of experience
705 reviews
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James
32 years of experience
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by Joseph
Pontiac Grand Prix V6-3.4L - Brake Light Switch - Garden Grove, California
James arrived ahead of schedule. He took the time to explain each phase the job to me. As usual, he had all the materials, tools and testing equipment required to complete the job. I am really grateful to have such a skilled professional work on my vehicle.

Mike

27 years of experience
265 reviews
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Mike
27 years of experience
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by Bryant
Pontiac G8 V6-3.6L - Brake Light Switch - Detroit, Michigan
Mike was More then Helpful and I appreciate his time and integrity. I would definitely recommend him to anyone.

Excellent Rating

(5)
Rating Summary
5
0
0
0
0
5
0
0
0
0
Number of Pontiac Brake Light Switch Replacement services completed
55+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT Pontiac MECHANICS
800+
experts on our platform
Yourmechanic was featured in

New York Times NBC CBS Forbes INC Tech Crunch

Learn more about us

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