Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit/System Description
The stop lamp switch signal circuit is a voltage input from the body control module (BCM) to the engine control module (ECM). The ECM monitors the stop lamp switch circuit to detect when the brake pedal has been applied. The BCM monitors the brake pedal position sensor to determine when the brake pedal is applied. When the brake pedal is applied, the BCM supplies a voltage signal on the brake applied signal circuit and also sends a serial data message to the ECM indicating that the brake pedal has been applied.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.