Ford Taurus Brake Light Switch Guide: 1986-1990
Everything you need to know about diagnosing and replacing the brake light switch on your first-generation Ford Taurus.
- Verify your exact model year before buying; the switch for 1986-1989 models is different from the one for 1990.
- Symptoms are not just limited to lights; a bad switch can also prevent you from shifting out of park or cause cruise control issues.
- This is a critical safety part. If your brake lights are not working, replace the switch immediately.
- The replacement is a simple DIY job for most owners, located on the brake pedal arm under the dashboard.
Is Your Brake Light Switch Failing?
A bad brake light switch on a first-generation Taurus can cause several distinct and frustrating problems. Because this switch controls more than just the lights, a failure can impact safety and basic vehicle operation. Look for these common signs.
🎬 Watch: A breakdown of common bad brake light switch symptoms.Key Symptoms of a Bad Switch
- Brake Lights Don't Work: The most obvious and dangerous symptom. When the switch fails in the 'open' position, it never completes the circuit to turn your brake lights on.
- Brake Lights Stay On: If the switch gets stuck in the 'closed' position, it will continuously send power to the brake lights, even when the car is off. This can drain your battery. Sometimes, you might be able to temporarily turn the lights off by pulling up on the brake pedal with your foot.
- Can't Shift Out of Park: Your Taurus requires a signal from the brake light switch before it will allow the shifter to move out of Park. If the switch is bad, your car may be stuck. 🎬 See this quick test if your shifter won't move.
- Cruise Control Won't Disengage: When you press the brake pedal, the switch is supposed to turn off your cruise control. A faulty switch may fail to send this signal.
A Critical Safety Part
Driving without functioning brake lights is extremely dangerous and illegal. If you suspect your brake light switch has failed, diagnose and replace it immediately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
For a vehicle like the 1986-1990 Taurus, you have a few solid options for a new aftermarket brake light switch. The most important thing is to buy the correct part for your specific model year, as there was a change in 1990.
Pro-Tip: Check Your Year!
There are two different brake light switches for this generation. 1986-1989 models use one style, while the 1990 model year uses a different one. Always verify the part fits your exact year before purchasing. The OEM part number for 1986-1989 models is E73Z-13480-A. The part for 1990 models is often listed as FOOY-13480-A.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Motorcraft (OEM-Tier): As the original equipment manufacturer for Ford, Motorcraft parts are designed for a perfect fit and to meet factory standards. For electrical components on a Ford, choosing Motorcraft is often the safest bet to avoid compatibility issues.
- Standard Ignition (SMP) (High-Quality Aftermarket): Standard Motor Products is a well-respected aftermarket brand that produces reliable parts. Their switches are designed to meet or exceed OE performance and are widely available. They are a dependable alternative to the OEM part.
- Rostra Powertrain (Standard Aftermarket): Rostra manufactures a wide range of automotive electronics. While they offer a replacement switch, specific owner reviews for this application are less common. It serves as a functional replacement option.
Brake Light Switch Cost for 1986-1990 Taurus
| Part Type | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $11.44 - $28.76 | Includes brands like Standard Ignition and Rostra. Price varies by brand and retailer. |
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $17.00 - $30.00 | Recommended for best fit and function. |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 | Typically a quick job for a professional, taking less than an hour. |
Installation Guide
Replacing the brake light switch is a straightforward job that most DIY mechanics can handle. The switch is located under the driver's side dashboard, mounted to a bracket on the brake pedal assembly.
- Disconnect the Battery: Before working on any electrical component, disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Locate the Switch: Look for the switch at the top of the brake pedal arm. You will need to get into the driver's footwell, likely on your back.
- Disconnect the Wiring: Carefully unplug the electrical connector from the switch.
- Remove the Old Switch: Depending on the exact design for your year, the switch may be held by a retaining clip or simply needs to be twisted (often counter-clockwise) to be removed from its bracket.
- Install the New Switch: Install the new switch in the reverse order of removal. Ensure it is seated correctly in the bracket.
- Reconnect and Test: Plug the electrical connector back in and reconnect the battery. Have a helper confirm that your brake lights turn on when you press the pedal and turn off when you release it.
Check the Wiring
On older cars like the first-gen Taurus, wires can become brittle. One owner on a Ford SHO forum noted that an intermittent brake light problem was caused by a failing wire inside the insulation, right near the switch connector. If a new switch doesn't fix the issue, inspect the wiring harness for damage.
🎬 Watch: How to test and fix classic Ford light switches.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I still drive my Taurus with a bad brake light switch?
If your brake lights are not working, it is not safe to drive. If they are stuck on, you can drive for a short time, but it will confuse other drivers and drain your battery. If you cannot shift out of park, you will be stranded.
Why do my brake lights work but my cruise control doesn't?
The brake light switch often contains two separate internal circuits: one for the lights and one for the cruise control. It's possible for the cruise control portion of the switch to fail while the brake light portion still works.
Is there a recall on the 1986-1990 Taurus brake light switch?
No, there are no specific NHTSA recalls for the brake light switch on the 1986-1990 Ford Taurus. Major recalls for this part were issued for later model years (2000-2003), but do not apply to the first generation.
Do I need to adjust the new brake light switch?
Most switches for this vehicle are self-adjusting or have a fixed position. When installing, you typically press the brake pedal down, install the switch, and then as the pedal returns to its resting position, it sets the switch's plunger to the correct depth. No special adjustment is usually needed.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: E73Z-13480-A FOOY-13480-A E9AZ-13480-A
Located on the brake pedal support bracket. Actuated by the movement of the brake pedal. Typically features a 2 or 4-blade terminal connector depending on the specific model year and options.
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.
- Ford Taurus:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Brake Light Switch Failing?
- Key Symptoms of a Bad Switch
- A Critical Safety Part
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Switch
- Pro-Tip: Check Your Year!
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Brake Light Switch Cost for 1986-1990 Taurus
- Installation Guide
- Check the Wiring
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off