1981-1989 Lincoln Town Car Brake Light Switch: Symptoms and Replacement
Don't get left in the dark; learn the signs of a failing brake light switch in your classic Town Car.
- A bad brake light switch is a critical safety issue; do not drive if your brake lights are not working.
- Symptoms include non-working brake lights, lights that stay on, or cruise control failure.
- Replacement is simple, located on the brake pedal arm, and is a great DIY task for beginners.
- The OEM Motorcraft part is highly recommended and often costs about the same as aftermarket options.
Is Your Brake Light Switch Failing?
A faulty brake light switch on a first-generation Town Car can cause several noticeable problems. Because this part is directly tied to safety, it's important to recognize the symptoms early. The internal contacts can wear out over time, or the switch can simply fall out of adjustment.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Switch:
- Brake Lights Don't Work: The most serious symptom is when your brake lights do not light up at all when you press the pedal. This is a major safety hazard.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can fail in the 'on' position, causing the brake lights to remain lit even when your foot is off the pedal. This can drain your battery and confuse drivers behind you.
- Cruise Control Issues: You may find that the cruise control will not turn on, or it might shut off unexpectedly while you are driving.
- Car Stuck in Park: On some models, a bad brake light switch can prevent the shift interlock from disengaging, meaning you can't move the gear selector out of Park.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
For your 1981-1989 Town Car, you have a choice between OEM-equivalent parts and standard aftermarket replacements. Quality is important for electrical components to ensure they work correctly and last a long time.
- Motorcraft: As Ford's official parts brand, Motorcraft is the Original Equipment (OEM) choice. These switches are built to the original factory specifications for fit and function. For a critical safety part, choosing the OEM brand is often the most reliable option to avoid any electrical gremlins.
- Standard Ignition (SMP): Standard Motor Products is a well-respected aftermarket manufacturer that produces reliable replacement parts. Their products are a dependable alternative to the OEM part and often meet or exceed original quality.
Brake Light Switch Replacement Cost
The cost to replace the brake light switch is very reasonable, especially if you do the work yourself. The part itself is affordable, and labor time is minimal.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $20 - $35 |
| New Aftermarket (Standard Ignition, etc.) | $26.49 - $31.22 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the brake light switch located?
The brake light switch is found under the driver's side dashboard. It is attached to the brake pedal arm, usually a few inches up from the pedal itself. You will need to look up from the floor mat to see it.
Can I replace this part myself?
Yes, this is a good DIY job for a beginner. The main challenge is the uncomfortable position required to work under the dashboard. The switch is typically held in place by a small hairpin clip and has a simple electrical connector. The entire job usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Will a new switch fix my cruise control?
If your cruise control stopped working at the same time you noticed brake light issues, then replacing the switch will very likely fix the problem. The switch is a key part of the cruise control's deactivation circuit.
Are there any recalls for this part?
Searches of the NHTSA database did not show any specific recalls for the brake light switch on the 1981-1989 Lincoln Town Car. There was a prominent recall for the *ignition switch* in some model years, but that is a different part located in the steering column.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: E0AZ-13480-A E9AZ-13480-A E9SZ-13480-A E9TZ-13480-A
Type: Mechanical Plunger Switch. Location: Brake Pedal Arm.
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.
- Lincoln Town Car: