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 is used to sense the action of the driver application of the brake pedal. The body control module (BCM) provides a low reference signal and a B+ reference voltage to the stop lamp switch. When the stop lamp switch contacts close indicating the brakes have been applied, the BCM will apply battery voltage to stop lamp relay control circuit and the center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL). When the stop lamp relay receives battery voltage from the BCM, the relay coil is energized and the stop lamp relay switch contacts close applying battery voltage to the STOP LAMPS fuse to illuminate the left and right stop lamps.
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.