Volvo S80 Brake Light Switch Guide: 1999-2007
Solve common electrical problems like warning lights and brake light failure by understanding your S80's brake light switch.
- A faulty brake light switch causes more than just brake light problems; it can make your S80 get stuck in park and trigger dashboard warning lights.
- Replacement is an easy DIY job located above the brake pedal, making it a good place to start for related electrical issues.
- For this part, avoid the cheapest brands like Professional Parts Sweden; stick with Genuine Volvo or a quality aftermarket brand like Vemo or Facet to ensure reliability.
- If you own a 2000 S80, check your chassis number before ordering to ensure you get the correct part.
Is Your S80 Showing Strange Electrical Symptoms?
A failing brake light switch on the first-generation Volvo S80 is a common issue that can cause confusing problems. Because this sensor, also known as a brake pedal position sensor, is tied into so many of the car's computer systems, its failure can look like a major electrical problem. Symptoms often include warning lights on the dash, the inability to shift out of park, or cruise control that won't work. Luckily, this is usually an inexpensive and simple part to replace.
Symptoms of a Failing Brake Light Switch
Watch for these signs that your brake light switch needs replacement:
- Brake Lights Don't Work: The most obvious and dangerous symptom. A person following you won't know you are slowing down.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can fail in the 'on' position, which will drain your battery, sometimes overnight.
- Stuck in Park: Your S80 requires a signal from the brake switch to allow the gear selector to move out of the Park position. 🎬 Watch: How to fix a shifter stuck in park.
- ABS / STC / ESP Warning Lights: A faulty switch can send bad information to the traction and stability control systems, triggering a warning light on your instrument cluster.
- Cruise Control Issues: The cruise control may not turn on at all, or it might shut off by itself while you're driving.
Pro Tip: Before replacing the switch, check two other things. First, make sure your floor mat has not slid forward and isn't preventing the brake pedal from returning to its top position. Second, on rare occasions, a specific "Brake Light Failure" message can be caused by a bad relay in the Rear Electronic Module (REM), not the switch itself.
🎬 See how to fix a brake light bulb failure warning.Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
While a Genuine Volvo part offers guaranteed fit and quality, several aftermarket brands provide reliable alternatives. However, quality can vary, so it's best to choose wisely for this critical component.
| Brand Tier | Brands | Quality & Value Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Aftermarket | Vemo, Facet | These brands are often considered high-quality alternatives to Genuine parts. Vemo is a well-known OEM supplier for many European cars, and user feedback for both brands is generally positive for fit and function. They offer a good balance of price and reliability. |
| Standard Aftermarket | Beck Arnley, Standard Ignition | These brands are established names in the aftermarket. They often source their parts from various manufacturers. While generally reliable, quality can sometimes be inconsistent. They are a budget-friendly option that should work correctly. |
| Economy / Use with Caution | Professional Parts Sweden (PPS) | Despite the brand name, owner and mechanic feedback for PPS is consistently poor, with reports of low-quality materials and premature failure. It is advisable to spend a few extra dollars on a higher-tier brand to avoid having to do the job twice. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it hard to replace a Volvo S80 brake light switch?
No, it is a relatively easy DIY job that most owners can do in under an hour. It involves removing the lower dash panel under the steering wheel (usually held by a few Torx screws), locating the switch at the top of the brake pedal arm, disconnecting the wiring, and releasing the switch from its mounting bracket.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing the pedal sensor.Are there any recalls for the brake light switch on my S80?
No, searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no specific recalls for the brake light switch on the 1999-2007 Volvo S80.
What is the OEM part number?
The most common Genuine Volvo part number is 8622064. However, for the 2000 model year, this part is specified for vehicles with chassis number 116811 and higher. Always verify the part number with your vehicle's VIN before ordering.
Can a bad brake light switch drain my battery?
Yes. If the switch fails in the closed or 'on' position, it will keep your brake lights illuminated even when the car is off, which will drain the battery.
My brake lights work, but I'm still stuck in park. Could it be the switch?
It's possible, but less likely. The switch has multiple contacts that can fail independently. However, if the brake lights are working, you should also check the shift interlock solenoid and its related wiring, as that is another common cause for this issue.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 8622064
Located on the brake pedal support bracket. Typically features a 4-pin electrical connector. Functions as a pedal position sensor for multiple vehicle modules.
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.
- Volvo S80: