1989 Corolla brake lights stay ON

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BILLFX862
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have a 1989 Corolla LE 4dr sedan with 129,500 miles. The engine is the 1.6L with auto trans, a/c, etc. No cruise control.
3 days ago the brake lights stayed on when I turned the ignition off. I pulled every fuse out I could find (kick panel, under hood) to no avail. I finally pulled the plug from the stoplight switch. The next day I pulled the stoplight switch and bench tested it, it checked out fine. I reinstalled it and the brake lights stayed on. I took the switch out from the mounting bracket and held it in my hand and it worked fine. Once installed in position the brake lights stay on. I replaced the switch but the problem persists. I then checked the switch(s) for a short between the terminals and the body and found none.
What could be the problem?
Bill
Jul 6, 2007 at 6:06 AM
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TRG
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  • 11 POSTS
I had this same problem. Where the brake light switch plunger contacts the brake lever, there is a hole that is plugged by a plastic pop-in disk. This disk has probably broken and fallen out. You need to replace with a new disk or use something hard to cover the hole. I am using a magnet. It is the small blue disk you see in the picture. trg.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/111595_IMG_0441_1.jpg

Mar 17, 2021 at 11:13 AM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
Mr. trg you're right on the money, I totally agree with your answer.
Mar 17, 2021 at 11:13 AM
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