A Guide to the Brake Light Switch for the 2002-2015 Kia Sedona
Understanding the common failures, recalls, and replacement options for this critical safety part in your Sedona.
- Check for open safety recalls (NHTSA #13V114000) on your Sedona, as many were equipped with faulty original switches.
- Symptoms are widespread, including brake light failure, inability to shift from Park, and an illuminated ESC light.
- Before replacing the switch, inspect the brake pedal arm for a small, broken plastic stopper pad, which is a common and simpler cause for lights staying on.
- Replacement is an easy DIY job, but requires working in a cramped space under the dash. Proper adjustment of the new switch is essential.
A Critical Safety Recall for Kia Sedona Owners
Before diagnosing a faulty switch, it's important to know that Kia issued major safety recalls for the brake light switch on many 2006-2011 Sedona models. These recalls, including NHTSA campaign numbers 09V130000 and 13V114000, addressed switches that could malfunction. A faulty switch could prevent brake lights from turning on or cause them to stay on, fail to disengage the cruise control, prevent the shifter from moving out of Park, and cause the ESC warning light to come on. You can check if your vehicle was part of this recall by contacting a Kia dealer or using your VIN on the NHTSA website. Even if your vehicle was repaired, the switch can still fail due to age and wear.
Symptoms of a Failing Brake Light Switch
A bad brake light switch can cause several confusing problems in your Sedona. Because the switch communicates with multiple vehicle systems, the symptoms are not always straightforward. Here are the most common signs of failure:
- Brake Lights Don't Work: The most obvious and dangerous symptom is when your brake lights do not illuminate when you press the pedal.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can fail in the 'on' position, leaving the brake lights illuminated even when the car is off, which will drain your battery.
- Can't Shift Out of Park: 🎬 See this quick fix if your shifter is stuck in Park. The switch sends a signal to the shift interlock, allowing you to move the gear selector out of Park when the brake is pressed. If this signal fails, your shifter will be stuck.
- ESC Light On: A faulty switch can trigger the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning light on your dashboard.
- Cruise Control Issues: You may find that the cruise control won't turn on, or more dangerously, it won't turn off when you press the brake pedal.
- Car Won't Start (Push-Button Start Models): If your Sedona has a push-button start, it requires a signal from the brake switch to allow the engine to start. A bad switch can prevent this.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
Since the original switches were prone to failure and subject to recalls, choosing a quality aftermarket replacement is important. The brands available offer a range of quality and price points.
- Standard Tier (Recommended): Brands like Standard Ignition (SMP), Beck Arnley, and Dorman are well-known in the aftermarket industry. They are engineered to meet or exceed original equipment (OE) specifications and are a reliable choice for this repair. Reviews for these brands are generally positive, citing good fit and function.
- Economy Tier: Brands listed as Replacement or True Tech are typically value-focused. While they are the most affordable, their long-term durability can sometimes be a concern for electronic parts. Given the safety-critical nature of this switch, spending a few extra dollars for a standard-tier part is often a wise investment.
- Other Options: Brands like Vemo, Facet, and Holstein also offer switches for the Sedona. Vemo is often priced as a premium aftermarket part.
Ultimately, any new aftermarket switch from a reputable brand should serve as a reliable replacement for the original, failure-prone part.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $11 - $34 |
| New OEM (Dealer) Part | $12 - $55 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $120 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to replace a Kia Sedona brake light switch?
No, the replacement itself is not mechanically difficult, but it can be physically awkward. The switch is located high up on the brake pedal assembly, requiring you to work in a tight space under the dashboard. The process involves unplugging the connector and twisting the switch to remove it. Most DIYers can complete the job in under 30 minutes.
Do I need to adjust the new brake light switch? 🎬 Watch: How to properly adjust your new brake light switch.
Yes, proper adjustment is critical. The new switch must be installed so there is a very small gap (typically 1-2mm) between the plunger and the pedal stopper when the brake is not applied. Incorrect adjustment can cause the lights to stay on or not come on soon enough. You can test it by making sure the lights turn off as soon as you release the pedal and turn on as soon as you press it.
My brake lights don't work, but my third brake light does. Is it the switch?
This is unlikely to be the brake light switch. On most vehicles, the brake light switch controls all brake lights, including the center high-mount stop lamp (third brake light). If only the main left and right brake lights are out, the problem is more likely burnt-out bulbs, bad sockets, a wiring issue, or a blown fuse for that specific circuit.
Why are my brake lights stuck on?
This can be caused by two main issues. First, the internal contacts of the brake light switch can fail, causing the circuit to remain closed. Second, and very commonly, a small plastic or rubber pad on the brake pedal arm that presses the switch's plunger can break and fall out. Without this pad, the switch is never fully depressed, and the lights stay on. Always check for this pad before buying a new switch.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 938103K000 938103S700 0K20C66490A
The switch is a 4-pin, plunger-activated switch located on a bracket above the brake pedal. It typically has a threaded body with two nuts for adjustment and is installed with a simple twist-lock motion.
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.
- Kia Sedona: