Dodge Journey Brake Light Switch: A Guide for 2009-2020 Models
If your Journey won't start, shift from park, or the cruise control is dead, the brake light switch is a likely culprit.
- A bad brake light switch can prevent your Journey from starting or shifting out of park.
- Symptoms include non-working brake lights, cruise control failure, and dashboard warning lights.
- Replacement is a simple, low-cost repair that is feasible for a DIYer with basic tools.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Standard, Vemo, and Crown are reliable alternatives to the more expensive OEM part.
Is Your Dodge Journey Acting Strange? Check the Brake Light Switch
If you own a 2009 to 2020 Dodge Journey, a failing brake light switch can cause a surprising number of problems. This small, inexpensive sensor is a common failure point that can make you think your vehicle has a major electrical issue. Before you suspect a dead battery or a bad starter, it's worth checking the symptoms of a faulty brake light switch.
🎬 Watch: A quick overview of bad brake light switch symptoms.Symptoms of a Bad Brake Light Switch on a Dodge Journey
- Won't Start: For Journeys with push-button start, the vehicle will not start if it doesn't get a signal from the brake light switch. You might see a "Push Brake to Start" message even though you are pressing the pedal.
- Stuck in Park: The gear shifter will not move out of 'Park' unless the brake pedal is depressed. A bad switch prevents this signal from reaching the shift interlock.
- Brake Lights Don't Work (or Stay On): The most obvious symptom is brake lights that either fail to illuminate when you press the pedal or stay on constantly, draining your battery.
- Cruise Control Inoperative: The cruise control system relies on the brake switch to disengage. If the switch is faulty, the cruise control may not set or may shut off unexpectedly.
- ABS/ESC Warning Lights: A bad switch can sometimes trigger the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) or Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning lights on your dashboard.
Is There a Recall?
There are no widespread recalls for the brake light switch across the entire 2009-2020 Dodge Journey model range. A specific recall (NHTSA 18V-098) was issued, but it only affected a very small number of vehicles manufactured in a narrow two-month window in 2017. Most vehicles will not be covered.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
When replacing the brake light switch, you don't necessarily need to buy the expensive OEM part from a dealer. Several reputable aftermarket brands offer quality replacements that meet or exceed OEM specifications. Since this is a critical safety and operational component, it's best to stick with known, reliable brands rather than the cheapest available option.
- Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products): Widely regarded as a top-tier aftermarket manufacturer, Standard often produces parts that are equivalent in quality to the original. They are a trusted choice for professional mechanics.
- Vemo: Vemo is a German brand that markets itself as a high-quality, OE-equivalent parts supplier. They often provide a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty, which is a good indicator of quality.
- Crown Automotive: This brand specializes in parts for Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler vehicles. Choosing a brand that focuses on your vehicle's manufacturer can be a good way to ensure proper fit and function.
- Rostra Powertrain: Rostra is a well-known manufacturer of automotive electronic components, including cruise control systems and sensors. They are an established brand in the electronics space.
Pro Tip: While some online videos suggest the replacement is a simple plug-and-play job, some service information indicates that the new switch may need to be calibrated using a professional scan tool to ensure it communicates correctly with the vehicle's computer. If you replace the switch and still have issues, a calibration might be necessary.
Brake Light Switch Cost for Dodge Journey (2009-2020)
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $18.00 - $47.85 |
| New OEM (Mopar) | $20.00 - $60.00 |
| Shop Labor | $85.00 - $125.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the Dodge Journey brake light switch myself?
Yes, this is a feasible DIY job for someone with basic tools. The switch is located on the brake pedal support bracket under the dashboard. It is held by one 7mm or 8mm bolt and has a single electrical connector. 🎬 Watch: This video shows the exact location and replacement process. The workspace is tight, which can make it awkward, but the process is straightforward.
Why won't my Journey start even with a good battery?
On push-to-start models, a bad brake light switch is a very common reason for a no-start condition. The car's computer requires a signal that the brake is pressed before it will allow the engine to crank. If the switch is broken, the computer never gets the signal.
Is an aftermarket switch as good as the OEM Mopar part?
For a part like this, a quality aftermarket switch from a reputable brand like Standard Ignition, Vemo, or Crown is a reliable and cost-effective alternative to the OEM part. These brands specialize in producing parts that meet or exceed original specifications.
What happens if I don't replace a bad brake light switch?
Ignoring a faulty brake light switch is a serious safety risk. Your brake lights may not work, which can lead to a rear-end collision. You could also be stranded if the car won't start or shift out of park. If the lights are stuck on, it will drain your battery.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 56029473AD 56029473AC 56029473AB 56029473AA 5083344AA
Located on the brake pedal support bracket. Typically secured with one bolt and has one electrical connector with 3 to 6 pins depending on the specific part number and year.
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.
- Dodge Journey:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Dodge Journey Acting Strange? Check the Brake Light Switch
- Symptoms of a Bad Brake Light Switch on a Dodge Journey
- Is There a Recall?
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
- Brake Light Switch Cost for Dodge Journey (2009-2020)
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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