How do you change a brake light switch for a 1990 Toyota Camry?

Answer 1

To change the brake light switch, I would go purchase one at the parts store first so that you know what you are looking for. Then lool behind the dash and follow the brake pedal up, unhook the spring, then keep going up and you will see the switch - unplug it, then loosen the nut that is on the switch side of the screw. There is a nut on the other side that is welded into the brake, don't mess with this one. After you loosen the nut, unscrew and reverse the process to put the switch back in... make sure you screw it in the right distance so that even a little brake sets off the lights... Good luck

Additional information that you will find helpful: It is difficult to find this switch because of the location. You have to lay your head down in the footwell as far to the left of the brake as you can, and with your back partially inside the door and with your feet on the ground. This is the only way you will be able to see the switch, because the body of the bracket is in the way from any other angle. You will need to take a small flashlight and place it on top of the fuse box and wires to the right side of your head. Aim it upward so you can see the switch. I also found it helpful to remove the cover from the brake light in the back window and turn the light toward the front so you can see it without having to maneuver in and out of the footwell area.

When following the brake pedal arm up you will see the cotter pin and the round pin that keeps the brake pedal arm in place. You will have to remove the pin to release the brake pedal arm. Once the brake pedal arm is released and hangs free, you will see a small, round, black button part of the switch. You may see 1 to 2 threads coming through the welded square nut. On the back side of the assembly, you will see the remaining threads and the body of the switch.

You will only be able to reach the switch with your left hand while in the awkward position you will be in. You will need a #14 open-end metric wrench to loosen the nut which secures the switch in place. You will also need to bring as much patience as you can muster up, and take frequent breaks while doing the work. I am not left handed, but I relied very heavily on my left hand to do all the work, including removing the plug from the switch, reinstalling the plug into the new switch, loosening the nut, removing the switch, and installing the new switch. I couldn't do anything with my right hand because I couldn't get it into the cramped space.

It is a difficult job, but once you see for yourself what I describe above, you can get it done!