Chrysler Neon Brake Light Switch Guide (1995-2002)
Fixing brake light problems and getting your Neon out of 'Park' often starts with this simple part.
- A bad brake light switch can prevent your Neon from shifting out of Park.
- Symptoms include brake lights not working, staying on, or cruise control failure.
- Replacement is an easy DIY job located above the brake pedal.
- Driving with a faulty switch is a major safety risk due to non-functional brake lights.
Symptoms of a Failing Brake Light Switch
A bad brake light switch on a Neon has very clear symptoms. You will likely notice one or more of these issues:
- Brake Lights Don't Work: The most dangerous symptom. Your brake lights will not turn on when you press the pedal.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can fail in the 'on' position, leaving your brake lights on even when the car is off. This will drain your battery and confuse other drivers.
- Stuck in Park: With an automatic transmission, a bad switch won't tell the car's computer you are pressing the brake, so the shifter will not move out of Park.
- Cruise Control Issues: The cruise control may not turn on, or it might shut off by itself while you are driving.
Safety and Recalls
While there are no open recalls for the original Mopar switch on these Neons, there was a recall for certain aftermarket switches. NHTSA campaign 16E001000 was issued for switches made by Wells (sold under brands like Duralast) for the 2001-2002 Neon. These faulty aftermarket parts could fail to light the brake lights or disengage cruise control, increasing crash risk. This highlights the importance of choosing a quality replacement part.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
When replacing the brake light switch, you have a few options. The quality can vary, so it's important to know the brands.
- Mopar (OEM): This is the original factory part. It offers the best guarantee of fit, function, and long life. If you want a fire-and-forget repair, Mopar is the safest bet.
- Premium Aftermarket (Rostra, Standard Ignition): Brands like Rostra Powertrain and Standard Motor Products (Standard Ignition) have a strong reputation for producing quality electronic components that meet or exceed OEM standards. They are excellent alternatives to the dealer part.
- Standard Aftermarket (Dorman, Vemo): Dorman is known for making a huge variety of parts, but quality can be hit-or-miss. For a simple switch, it can be a cost-effective option that works fine, but the risk of early failure is slightly higher compared to premium brands. Vemo is another available option, though less common in the North American market.
Pro Tip: Given the low cost of even premium aftermarket switches and the safety function of this part, spending a few extra dollars for a Mopar, Rostra, or Standard Ignition switch is a wise investment.
Typical Replacement Costs
The cost for a new brake light switch is low, and the labor is minimal if you have a shop do it.
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) | $26 - $45 |
| New Aftermarket | $21.14 - $70.60 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the brake light switch located on a 1995-2002 Neon?
The brake light switch is located directly above the brake pedal arm, under the dashboard. You will need to look up from the driver's side floor to see it mounted to a bracket.
Is replacing the brake light switch a difficult job?
No, this is considered an easy DIY repair. It usually requires no special tools. The process involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the electrical connector from the switch, and then twisting or unclipping the switch to remove it from its mounting bracket. Installation is the reverse of removal.
My brake lights are stuck on. Could it be something else?
Yes. On many cars, there is a small plastic or rubber stopper on the brake pedal arm that presses the switch's plunger when the pedal is released. These stoppers can become brittle and break off. If the stopper is missing, the switch will think the pedal is always pressed, leaving the lights on. Check for a broken stopper before buying a new switch.
My car is stuck in Park. How can I move it to get to a shop?
Most automatic cars have a manual shift-lock override. Check your owner's manual for the specific procedure. It often involves inserting your key into a small slot near the shifter. This will let you move the car, but be aware that if the brake light switch has failed, your brake lights will likely not work, which is extremely dangerous. This should only be used to move the vehicle to a safe repair location.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4671336 4671336AB 4671336AC 4671336AD 56042023
Typically a 6-pin, plunger-style switch mounted on the 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.
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