Lincoln MKZ 2007-2020 Brake Light Switch: A Complete Replacement Guide
If your MKZ is stuck in park or the brake lights are acting up, this guide will help you diagnose and fix the problem.
- A bad brake light switch can prevent your MKZ from starting or shifting out of park.
- For 2014-2015 models, check for a failed brake pedal bumper before replacing the switch, as this is a known recall issue.
- Replacement is a very easy DIY task that can be done in under 30 minutes with no special tools.
- Driving with a faulty brake light switch is a serious safety hazard and should be addressed immediately.
Is Your Lincoln MKZ Brake Light Switch Failing?
A faulty brake light switch can cause several confusing problems that might not seem related to the brakes at first. Because this switch communicates with multiple systems in your MKZ, its failure can be disruptive and dangerous. Understanding the signs is the first step to a quick fix.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Switch:
- Brake Lights Don't Work: The most obvious sign is when your brake lights do not light up when you press the pedal. This is a major safety hazard.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can fail in the 'on' position, leaving your brake lights illuminated constantly. This will confuse other drivers and can drain your battery overnight.
- Can't Shift Out of Park: Your MKZ has a safety feature called a shift interlock that prevents you from shifting out of 'Park' unless the brake is pressed. If the switch is bad, the car doesn't get the signal and the shifter remains locked. 🎬 See what to do when your car is stuck in park
- Car Won't Start: On models with a push-button ignition, a bad brake light switch can prevent the engine from starting because the system doesn't detect that the brake pedal is depressed.
- Cruise Control Issues: The cruise control may not engage, or it might shut off unexpectedly, as it relies on the switch to know when you're braking.
- Dashboard Warning Lights: A failing switch can sometimes trigger the ABS or traction control warning lights on your dash.
IMPORTANT RECALL: Check This Before Replacing the Switch on 2014-2015 Models!
Ford issued a recall (NHTSA ID: 22S02) for 2014-2015 Lincoln MKZ models due to a failing brake pedal bumper, not the switch itself. In high heat and humidity, this small rubber bumper on the pedal assembly can fall apart. When it does, the switch plunger has nothing to press against, causing the brake lights to stay on and allowing the car to be shifted out of park without braking. Before buying a new switch for a 2014 or 2015 MKZ, inspect the brake pedal arm for a small, missing, or crumbled plastic/rubber stopper. 🎬 Watch: How to identify a broken brake switch stopper This is a free dealer-recalled repair.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
While a Motorcraft OEM switch is always a safe bet, several quality aftermarket brands offer reliable parts that can save you money. The replacement is simple, so spending a little extra on a quality part is a smart investment to avoid doing the job twice.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Aftermarket (High Confidence): Brands like Motorcraft (OEM), Standard Ignition (SMP), and Holstein are known for producing parts that meet or exceed original specifications. They use high-quality materials and often have robust testing processes, making them a trusted choice for this critical component.
- Standard Aftermarket (Good Value): Brands like Dorman and Rostra Powertrain are widely available and often provide a good balance of price and quality. Dorman sometimes improves on factory designs, but quality on small electronic parts can be inconsistent. They are a viable option if premium brands aren't available.
- Economy Aftermarket (Budget-Focused): Brands listed simply as Replacement or True Tech are typically the most affordable. They can be a good choice for a tight budget, but may not offer the same long-term durability as premium options.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $50 - $75 |
| New Aftermarket | $22 - $61 |
| Shop Labor | $60 - $120 |
Pro Tip: Replacing the brake light switch is a very simple DIY job that usually takes less than 30 minutes and requires no special tools. Doing it yourself can save you over $100 in labor costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to drive with a bad brake light switch?
No, it is not safe. If your brake lights don't work, other drivers won't know you are stopping, which can easily cause a rear-end collision. If your brake lights are stuck on, it can confuse other drivers and create a hazard. You should get the vehicle repaired immediately.
Where is the brake light switch located on my Lincoln MKZ?
The brake light switch is located directly above the brake pedal, mounted to the pedal support bracket. You will need to look up under the driver's side dashboard to see it. It is a small, typically blue or black, switch with an electrical connector and a plunger that contacts the brake pedal arm.
How do I replace the brake light switch myself?
The process is straightforward. First, disconnect the electrical connector from the old switch. Then, turn the body of the switch about a quarter-turn counter-clockwise and pull it out of the bracket. To install the new one, simply insert it into the bracket and turn it clockwise until it locks into place, then reconnect the wiring harness. No adjustment is typically needed.
🎬 Watch this easy walkthrough for replacing the brake light switchMy brake lights work, but I still can't shift out of park. What could it be?
While the brake light switch is the most common cause, the issue could also be a blown fuse for the shift interlock system or a failed shift interlock solenoid itself. However, since the brake light switch is inexpensive and easy to replace, it's often the best place to start your diagnosis after checking fuses.
What is a brake pedal bumper and how do I know if it's the problem?
The brake pedal bumper is a small plastic or rubber stopper on the brake pedal arm. It's the part that physically presses the plunger on the brake light switch when the pedal is released. If you have a 2014-2015 MKZ and your brake lights are stuck on, look at the pedal arm. If you see a small hole where the switch plunger is, or bits of broken plastic on the floor mat, the bumper has likely disintegrated and needs to be replaced.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: SW6350 8T4Z13480A
The brake light switch for the Lincoln MKZ is a plunger-style switch that mounts to the brake pedal support bracket. It typically features a 4-pin electrical connector to control the brake lights, shift interlock, and cruise control circuits. The installation is a simple twist-lock design.
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.
- Lincoln MKZ:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Lincoln MKZ Brake Light Switch Failing?
- Common Symptoms of a Bad Switch:
- IMPORTANT RECALL: Check This Before Replacing the Switch on 2014-2015 Models!
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off