OEM 2005 Dodge Dakota Brake Light Switch

2005 Dodge Dakota Brake Light Switch Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Maintain a Brake Light Switch on 2005 Dodge Dakota?

  A: When servicing the brake light switch, take care, disconnect the negative cable from the battery, then, in cars with air bags, wait two minutes to allow the system capacitor to empty; only then can you continue the repair safely. You will find the brake lamp switch on the support bracket of the lower steering column. After unplugging the wire harness connector, turn the switch housing clockwise 30 degrees to fit the tabs on the collared switch with the keyed hole in the bracket. Take the switch out of the bracket by pulling it back, as the self-adjusting switch mechanism is not meant to be fixed and has to be replaced if you detach it. To install, apply pressure to the brake pedal, line up the tabs on the brake lamp switch locking collar with the keyed opening in the switch mounting bracket and seat the switch housing when the tabs click into position. Turn the switch housing by about 30 degrees to the left, so the tabs fit into the bracket. Make sure you finish the switch plunger adjustment before touching the brake pedal. Push in the brake pedal, then turn the plunger adjustment release lever clockwise until it is next to and parallel with the brake lamp switch receptacle. Once this action is done, the switch plunger cannot be adjusted further; failure means installing a new switch is necessary. Lastly, replace the brake wire harness connector on the brake lamp switch.