Intermittent brake light failure

[GassinGerhard]

So the glow plug light started flashing then it went out. Then I found out my brake lights weren't working all of the time. So I pull the switch out and it works fine when I check for continuity. So I stick it back in and the brake lights work fine. Then the stupid glow plug light starts flashing again and the brake lights aren't working. So I remove the switch again, put a jumper across the contacts of the electrical connector and everything works fine. One more check at the VOM meter and everything checks out OK. I re-install the switch and my brake lights work again. I wouldn't be surprised to find out that the stupid glow plug light comes back on again tomorrow morning on the way to work and my brake lights quit working. It's a four pin switch BTW, part number 1J0 945 511A. Any ideas?

 

[MaxThrust]

Replace that switch, it's a $10 part at the dealer. As you well know, it takes less than a minute to replace. The original switches were flaky and there might even be a TSB or recall on them depending on year and model, but I don't recall the details. Still, it's cheap and extremely easy to change yourself. I bought a spare and keep it in my 'kit' in case it goes on a road trip far from home. Apparently the new switches are improved in some way, and in fact have a new letter on the end of the part number, D if I remember correctly.

Mike /images/graemlins/cool.gif