Ford Escort Brake Light Switch Guide for 1981-1990 Models
Understand, diagnose, and choose the right new brake light switch for your first-generation Ford Escort.
- A bad brake light switch is a critical safety issue; replace it immediately if your brake lights don't work.
- Symptoms include brake lights not working, staying on constantly, or being unable to shift out of Park.
- For this part, Motorcraft is the OEM choice for guaranteed fit, but a quality aftermarket brand like Standard Ignition is a reliable alternative.
- Proper adjustment during installation is crucial to prevent the new switch from failing prematurely.
Symptoms of a Failing Brake Light Switch
A brake light switch failure is usually easy to spot. Because this part is directly responsible for lighting up your brakes, the signs are often obvious and pose a significant safety risk. Watch for these key symptoms:
- Brake Lights Don't Turn On: This is the most dangerous symptom. If you press the brake pedal and none of the brake lights illuminate, the switch is the most likely culprit, assuming the bulbs and fuse are good.
- Brake Lights Stay On: A switch can also fail in the 'on' position. This will cause your brake lights to remain lit even when your foot is off the pedal, which can drain your battery and confuse other drivers.
- Intermittent Brake Lights: The switch contacts can wear out, causing the brake lights to flicker or only work some of the time. This is unreliable and unsafe.
Safety First
Driving without functional brake lights is illegal and extremely dangerous. If you suspect your brake light switch has failed, get it inspected and replaced immediately. You could be rear-ended without warning.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
For a straightforward part like the brake light switch on a 1981-1990 Escort, you don't necessarily need to pay for a part from the dealer. Aftermarket options offer good value, but quality can differ between brands. Here’s how to choose wisely:
Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1: OEM-Equivalent (Motorcraft): Motorcraft is Ford's own parts brand. Choosing a Motorcraft switch guarantees a perfect fit, correct electrical connections, and quality materials that match the original part your car was built with. For electrical components, sticking with the OEM brand is often the safest bet to avoid compatibility issues.
- Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket (Standard Ignition): Brands like Standard Motor Products (SMP) have been making replacement parts for decades. They are a well-known option and generally produce reliable components that offer a good balance of price and quality. While usually dependable, it's always good practice to compare the new part to the old one before installation.
- Tier 3: Economy Brands: Many budget-friendly options are available. While the low price is tempting, some forum users have reported issues with lower-quality aftermarket switches failing prematurely on older Escorts. Often, these failures are due to improper adjustment during installation, but sometimes the part itself is the problem. If you choose an economy brand, be extra careful with installation and adjustment.
Pro Tip: The Importance of Adjustment
Many premature failures of new brake light switches are caused by incorrect installation. The switch is threaded and needs to be adjusted so the plunger is fully depressed when the pedal is at rest, but not crushed. It should activate the moment you begin to press the pedal. Taking a few extra minutes to get this adjustment right can prevent you from having to do the job again in a few weeks.
Typical Replacement Costs
Replacing the brake light switch is an inexpensive repair. The part itself is affordable, and the labor time is minimal since it's easy to access.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Brake Light Switch | $11 - $29 |
| Shop Labor | $45 - $90 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $56 - $119 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a bad brake light switch?
No. If your brake lights are not working, you should not drive the vehicle. It is a major safety hazard that can easily cause a rear-end collision. If the lights are stuck on, you risk draining your battery and confusing other drivers, but the immediate crash risk is lower.
Is replacing the brake light switch a DIY job?
Yes, for most home mechanics this is a very easy job. The switch is located on a bracket near the top of the brake pedal arm. It typically involves unplugging the electrical connector and unscrewing the old switch. The most important part is correctly adjusting the new switch.
Why did my new aftermarket switch fail so quickly?
This is almost always due to improper adjustment. If the switch is screwed in too far, the brake pedal arm can damage the plunger over time. If it's not screwed in far enough, it may not make contact or will have intermittent operation. Always follow the adjustment procedure carefully.
Are there any recalls for the 1981-1990 Escort brake light switch?
No. Searches of the NHTSA database and other records show recalls for brake light switches on much newer Ford models, but none specifically apply to the 1981-1990 Ford Escort.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: E1FZ13480A E1FZ13480B E6FZ13480A E73Z13480A E8GY13480B
Type: Plunger-style mechanical switch. Location: Upper brake pedal bracket.
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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.
- Ford Escort: