How to Change the Brake Light Switch on a 2002 Sunfire

The brake light switch on your 2002 Pontiac Sunfire is a simple push-connect switch that activates every time you depress the brake pedal. The switch is directly connected to the battery, so even if the engine is turned off, your brake lights will still operate. However, worn-out contacts in the switch will make it harder for the brake lights to come on, making you car a road hazard for you and other drivers on the road. Fortunately, the switch is easily accessed through the bottom of the instrument panel and you can replace it in minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver

Instructions

1. Detach the lower instrument panel, if you need better access to the brake light switch mounted on the upper section of the brake pedal arm. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver.

2. Unplug the two electrical connections from the side of the brake switch.

3. Rotate the brake light switch counterclockwise until it hits the stop. Look at the position of the switch so that you insert the new switch in its mounting bracket in this same position.

4. Pull the brake light switch from its mounting bracket by hand.

5. Insert the new brake light switch into its mounting bracket.

6. Rotate the new brake light switch clockwise until it hits the stop to lock it in place.

7. Plug the two electrical connections to the side of the brake switch.

8. Attach the lower instrument panel, if you had to remove it, using the Phillips-head screwdriver.

References

• "Chevrolet Cavalier & Pontiac Sunfire Automotive Repair Manual"; Robert Maddox, Mark Ryan and John H. Haynes; 2005