How to fit a brake light switch

I think that the location of the brake light switch up by the steering wheel column might only apply to RHD cars.
Here's the brake light switch (green part) on my 2001 LHD petrol As you can see, it's just above the pedal.

brake-light-switch-lhd-a2.jpg
 
I think that the location of the brake light switch up by the steering wheel column might only apply to RHD cars.
Here's the brake light switch (green part) on my 2001 LHD petrol As you can see, it's just above the pedal.

View attachment 18823

On a RHD car it is also near the brake pedal just to the left of it and in between the brake and clutch pedal.

and Michael's (Skipton's) guide is spot on and shows how it really s a DIY job.

One thing to add is that I have always had to make sure that the plunger is far enough out to contact the metal of the pedal. The plunger on the switches I have bought can be extended. The first operation then resets it to the right spot. I also depress the brake when fitting it in place so that the plunger is not pushed in too far again.

Steve B
 
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I've just had to do this tonight. Its a lot easier to remove the heating duct too to get the best access (the horn shaped thing top left of the picture.) I agree that the best way to set the plunger length is to fully extend then re insert with the pedal depressed.
 
I've just had to do this tonight. Its a lot easier to remove the heating duct too to get the best access (the horn shaped thing top left of the picture.) I agree that the best way to set the plunger length is to fully extend then re insert with the pedal depressed.
Yes, that does give you more space. I just wish it went back on a bit easier!!

Steve B
 
Had to do this tonight too and thanks to this thread managed it in about an hour - problem was the heater duct removal - realised eventually you have to pull the thing towards the drivers door and downwards at the same time then it 'just comes away in your hand' as they say. Also would say it's a lot easier to fit the new switch if you sit in the passenger side and use your right hand (assuming you are right handed) to engage the bayonet base of the switch and turn clockwise into position. The switch cost me £25 inc. VAT from Aberdeen Audi. They also offered to plug in their diagnostic tool to check it was a failed switch for a mere £95 - I declined.

gm
 
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