Ford Bronco Brake Light Switch Guide (1978-1985)
Keep your classic Bronco safe and legal by troubleshooting and replacing a faulty brake light switch.
- A bad brake light switch is a critical safety issue that should be fixed immediately.
- Primary symptoms are brake lights that don't work or stay on constantly.
- Replacement is simple, inexpensive, and a very common DIY repair for Bronco owners.
- A quality aftermarket brand like Standard Ignition is a reliable choice for this part.
Is Your Bronco's Brake Light Switch Failing?
A bad brake light switch is a common issue on older vehicles like the 1978-1985 Ford Bronco. Because it's a mechanical part that gets used every time you drive, it eventually wears out. The good news is that diagnosing and replacing it is one of the easier jobs you can do on your truck.
Top 3 Failure Symptoms
🎬 Watch: Understanding Ford brake light switch operation and common problems.- Brake Lights Don't Work: This is the most dangerous symptom. The switch fails in the 'open' position, meaning it never completes the circuit to turn the lights on.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can also fail in the 'closed' position, causing the brake lights to remain on even when your foot is off the pedal. This will confuse other drivers and drain your battery overnight.
- Cruise Control Inoperative: If your Bronco has cruise control, a faulty switch may prevent the system from engaging or cause it to shut off unexpectedly.
Safety First: A Critical Part
Driving without functional brake lights is extremely dangerous and illegal. Drivers behind you will have no warning when you are slowing or stopping, which can easily lead to a rear-end collision. If you suspect your brake light switch has failed, you should not drive the vehicle until it is repaired.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
For a vintage truck like the '78-'85 Bronco, finding original Ford (OEM) parts can be difficult or impossible. Fortunately, the brake light switch is a simple part, and high-quality aftermarket replacements are readily available and reliable. Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products) is a well-regarded brand in the aftermarket industry that produces switches for this generation of Bronco. Given the basic function of this part, a new switch from a reputable brand like Standard Ignition is a practical and cost-effective choice that meets or exceeds the original specifications.
Pro Tip: Check This First!
Before you replace the switch, confirm it's the problem. Unplug the two-wire connector from the switch and use a small piece of wire to jump the two terminals in the connector. If your brake lights turn on, you've confirmed the switch is the culprit. If they don't, check your bulbs and fuses before proceeding.
🎬 See this video for testing and fixing your Ford switch.Brake Light Switch Replacement Cost (1978-1985 Ford Bronco)
Replacing the brake light switch is an inexpensive repair, whether you do it yourself or have a shop handle it.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Switch (e.g., Standard Ignition) | $17 - $50 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
| DIY Total Cost | $17 - $50 |
| Shop Total Cost | $67 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the brake light switch located on a '78-'85 Bronco?
The brake light switch is located under the driver's side dashboard, mounted on the brake pedal support bracket. You will see it attached to the brake pedal arm, where it can be activated as the pedal moves.
Can I replace the brake light switch myself?
Yes, this is a great DIY job for beginners. It typically requires no special tools, though you will be working in a slightly awkward position under the dash. The process involves unplugging the wire harness and removing a single retaining clip. The entire job can usually be done in under 30 minutes.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step brake light switch replacement for your Bronco.What if a new switch doesn't fix my brake lights?
If a new switch and good bulbs don't solve the issue, the problem may be in the turn signal switch. On these older Ford trucks, the power for the brake lights is routed through the turn signal switch in the steering column. A failure inside that switch can prevent the brake lights from working even when the brake light switch is good.
Are there any recalls for the brake light switch on my Bronco?
No, there are no active recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA or Ford for the brake light switch specifically on the 1978-1985 Ford Bronco models. Recalls you may have heard about for Ford trucks typically involve a different type of switch (a cruise control deactivation switch) on different model years.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: E3TZ-13480-B E0TZ-13480-B
2-Terminal Mechanical Plunger Switch
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.