A Guide to the Brake Light Switch for the 2007-2014 Honda Fit
Understand the common failure points and choose the right replacement part for your Fit.
- Before replacing the switch, always check for a broken plastic stopper pad on the brake pedal arm; it's a very common failure point.
- Symptoms of a bad switch aren't just about lights; it can also prevent you from shifting out of Park or using cruise control.
- Replacement is simple and can be done in under 30 minutes with no special tools, making it a great DIY task.
- High-quality aftermarket brands like Beck Arnley and Standard Ignition offer reliability comparable to OEM for this part.
Is Your Honda Fit Brake Light Switch Failing?
A bad brake light switch can create several confusing issues. Because the switch communicates with different systems in your Fit, a failure can show up in unexpected ways. Understanding the signs can help you pinpoint the problem quickly.
Key Failure Symptoms:
- Brake Lights Don't Work: The most obvious and dangerous symptom. When the switch fails to make contact, your brake lights won't illuminate at all.
- Brake Lights Stay On: If the switch gets stuck in the 'on' position, it will keep the brake lights illuminated even when your foot is off the pedal, which can drain your battery.
- Cannot Shift Out of Park: For safety, your Fit requires the brake pedal to be pressed before you can shift out of Park. If the switch doesn't send this signal, your gear selector will be stuck.
- Cruise Control Won't Engage: The cruise control system relies on the brake switch to disengage. If the switch is faulty, the cruise control may not set or may turn off unexpectedly.
Check This First: The Brake Pedal Stopper
A very common issue on the 2007-2014 Honda Fit that mimics a failed brake light switch is a disintegrated brake pedal stopper. This is a small, inexpensive plastic or rubber pad on the brake pedal arm that physically presses the switch's plunger. Over time, it can become brittle and crumble. If you find small plastic pieces on your driver-side floor mat and your brake lights are stuck on, this is almost certainly your problem. 🎬 Watch: How to fix Honda Fit brake lights that won't turn off Always check for a missing stopper before replacing the entire switch.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
When replacing the brake light switch, you have a choice between Original Equipment (OEM) and various aftermarket brands. For a simple but critical part like this, quality matters. Aftermarket parts can offer good value, but quality can vary between brands.
Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Honda Fit
- Top-Tier Aftermarket (OEM-Quality): Brands like Beck Arnley and Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products) have a strong reputation for producing parts that meet or exceed original specifications. Beck Arnley, in particular, is often noted for sourcing parts from OEM manufacturers and repackaging them. These are excellent choices for reliability that is very close to the original part.
- Mid-Tier Aftermarket (Reliable Alternatives): Brands like Vemo, Facet, and Holstein offer direct-fit replacement parts that are a cost-effective alternative to OEM. While they may not have the same long-standing reputation as the top-tier brands specifically for Honda parts, they are generally considered reliable for this type of component.
- Value-Oriented Options: Rostra Powertrain produces a wide range of electronic components and offers a direct-fit OE replacement switch. These parts are designed to be functional and are often the most budget-friendly option.
Pro Tip: Given the low cost of even high-quality aftermarket switches and the critical safety function of brake lights, it is wise to choose a brand from the top or mid-tier for peace of mind. The small price difference is worth the added reliability.
Brake Light Switch Cost for 2007-2014 Honda Fit
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM | $12 - $30 |
| New Aftermarket | $10.69 - $50.60 |
| Brake Pedal Stopper Pad | $5 - $12 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the brake light switch myself?
Yes, this is a very DIY-friendly job. The switch is located above the brake pedal in the driver's footwell. The process involves disconnecting the electrical connector, twisting the old switch about 45 degrees to remove it, and installing the new one in reverse order. No special tools are needed, but you will be working in a tight space.
🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing the switch and checking the fuseAre there any recalls for the brake light switch on the 2007-2014 Fit?
No. While there were recalls for brake light switches on other Honda models like the Civic around the same time period, there are no active recalls specifically for the brake light switch on the 2007-2014 Honda Fit in the US market.
Why are my brake lights stuck on?
This is most commonly caused by a broken or missing brake pedal stopper pad. This small plastic piece presses the switch plunger in when the pedal is released. Without it, the plunger stays out, and the lights stay on. Less commonly, the switch itself can fail internally in the 'on' position.
Does the new switch need to be adjusted?
Yes, proper adjustment is important. When installing the new switch, you push it in until the plunger is fully depressed against the pedal arm (or stopper pad), then turn it to lock it in place. This ensures the lights turn off correctly when the pedal is released but come on immediately when pressed.
🎬 Watch this guide to properly adjust your new stoplight switchHelpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 36750-SMA-013 35350-SMA-013 36750-SMA-003 35350-S5A-J01
Located on the brake pedal support bracket. Typically features a 2-pin or 4-pin electrical connector and a threaded plastic body that allows for adjustment. The switch operates via a spring-loaded plunger.
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.
- Honda Fit:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Honda Fit Brake Light Switch Failing?
- Key Failure Symptoms:
- Check This First: The Brake Pedal Stopper
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
- Aftermarket Brand Tiers for Honda Fit
- Brake Light Switch Cost for 2007-2014 Honda Fit
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off