emergency brake light

[net_shark512]

I have a '00 xlt sohc. I just bought it. The only thing I noticed that doesn't work is when you apply the E brake the light on the dash doesn't come on. The E brake holds just fine. The light is not burned out because it lights briefly when you start the truck. What I want to know is should I be concerned about this? Will it still work when you have a brake prob? I read this light will come on if you have low fluid levels and such. Is there maybe a switch that is not working when you put the E brake on? it is a automatic so the E brake is a pedal one. Also my truck has 73,000 miles on it I picked it up for $8,500. Other than high miles for a '00 it is in almost perfect shape. Did I get a good deal?? thanks much for help.

 

[RiverRat]

Originally posted by net_shark512
. Is there maybe a switch that is not working when you put the E brake on?

You got it. There is a switch on the parking brake mechanism. Sounds like a good deal

 

[VOATMJ1]

Check the back of the E-brake pedal, and there will be an electrical plug. Make sure that plug is not loose or has come off. If the plus is on there, press the E-brake pedal down maybe half way, turn your key to the on position or start it if you want, and wiggle that plug around and see if your brake light comes on.

If not, unplug and then plug it back in. If that still does not work, your switch may be bad. Try spraying WD 40 on it, and try again.

Your brake light serves and a dual function light. One for the E-brake, and the other for main system braking functions, including low brake fluid. (You should have a seperate ABS light). Just becase your e-brake light does not work, does not mean that is will not come on if you have a main brake system failure or low fluid. If your e-brake works, great. If you can live with out the light coming on when you apply the parking brake, it will not hurt anything, unless you are like me and want everything that is suppose to work, to work. If it is no the plug, get a new switch.

 

[net_shark512]

thanks VOATMJ1 that was excatly it. The plug is loose. I wiggled it and the light works. It just doesn't stay like that it works and then it doesn't and you have to play with the plug again. Any suggestions? If not no big deal at least I know its just the plug and it works!! also right by the plug there is a little screw that you can hand tighten against a little spring any ideas what that does? thanks much man you really came through with that advise.

 

[VOATMJ1]

If the plug is loose and will not stay, try using one of those zip tie things, and snug up the plug and zip it tight around the e-brake bracket. Or use a small amount of clear silicone, snug up the plug to where it works, and then smear some silicine aound the connection where it meets up. That method worked for a Bronco II that I had. My Bronco had the same problem you have, a loose plug.

As far as the spring and screw thing, I don't know what that is used for. Maybe someone else on the board knows??

 

[Jayson Wonder]

I have the same problem, I am going to check the plug. I have to get it working, my E brake does work but it is so easy to forget to take it off if the light is not working. The last time I used it I ended up driving home 50km with it left on. To my knowledge there was no damage but I was pissed.

 

[nascar_intimid]

I have the same problem, I am going to check the plug. I have to get it working, my E brake does work but it is so easy to forget to take it off if the light is not working. The last time I used it I ended up driving home 50km with it left on. To my knowledge there was no damage but I was pissed.

If you were able to drive with it "on" then your cable is too slack and needs adjustment...it won't do **** if you really need it if your brakes failed. Mine goes down about 8-10 clicks before it won't go down any further and it won't drive at all with it engaged. I also try it now and again with the gear selector in neutral to make sure it is fine. Remember this peddle is your last chance for safety...DON'T IGNORE IT or think you'll never need it or say " that's only for parking on hills" sorry for the lecture

 

[Jayson Wonder]

Still holds vehicle

Yes I agree with what you say! It does still hold the vehicle in N and even ig gear if the gas is not pressed. I will get ajusted thought or try to figure out how to do it my self.

I need to get the light fixed though! I check the wire to see if it was disconected but it was not. I wiggled it around but still could not get it to work. I hope it is not in the dash.

Is there a way to test this out where my problem is coming from? I just want to get my light working when the e-brake is on.

 

[nascar_intimid]

bulb burned out??...switch on peddle faulty, may need lubricating...let us know how you make out please...thanks

 

[Jayson Wonder]

Does anyone have a picture of the e-brake switch? Or can give a description of the location. I know it sounds stupid but I want to be sure cause I can't find it.

 

[nascar_intimid]

my wife has my camera on vacation with her right now...she is visiting family on the east coast...it works right off the e-brake peddle, it's the first thing you see