Volvo S60 Brake Light Switch Guide for 2011-2017 Models
Fixing common brake light, cruise control, and shifting problems starts with this small but critical part.
- A bad brake light switch can cause brake light failure, prevent shifting from Park, and disable cruise control.
- This is a simple and inexpensive DIY repair that most owners can do in under an hour.
- The correct OEM part number for the 2011-2017 S60 is 30773935; use this to find the right aftermarket part.
- For best results, choose a reputable OE (VNE) or Premium Aftermarket (Standard Ignition) brand.
Is Your Volvo S60 Acting Strange? It Could Be the Brake Light Switch.
If your 2011-2017 Volvo S60 is experiencing electrical issues, a failing brake light switch is a common and often overlooked cause. This small sensor is located on a bracket behind the brake pedal. Over time, the constant use from pressing the brake pedal causes internal wear, leading to failure. Symptoms can appear suddenly and may seem unrelated to a simple switch.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Brake Light Switch
- Brake Lights Don't Work: The most obvious and dangerous symptom. The switch fails to complete the circuit, and your brake lights do not turn on.
- Brake Lights Stay On: The switch can fail in the 'on' position, leaving your brake lights illuminated constantly and draining your battery.
- Can't Shift Out of Park: Your S60 has a safety feature that requires the brake to be pressed to shift out of Park. If the switch is bad, the car doesn't get the signal, and your gear selector will be stuck. 🎬 Watch: Troubleshooting a Volvo that is stuck in park
- Cruise Control Issues: The cruise control may not engage at all, or it might turn off unexpectedly while driving.
- Warning Lights: A faulty switch can trigger dashboard warning lights, including the check engine light, ABS, or traction control lights. You may see a diagnostic trouble code like P0571, which points to a brake switch circuit malfunction.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
When replacing the brake light switch, you don't have to buy the part from a Volvo dealer. Aftermarket parts can offer the same quality for a lower price. For your S60, you'll find a few quality tiers:
- OE (Original Equipment) Brands: An "OE" supplier is the company that manufactured the original part for Volvo. Brands like VNE are known to be OE suppliers for European cars. These parts are identical to the genuine Volvo part but come in a different box and cost less. This is often the best balance of quality and value.
- Premium Aftermarket Brands: Companies like Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products) have a long reputation for producing high-quality replacement parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are a trusted choice for professional mechanics and a reliable alternative to Genuine Volvo or OE parts.
- Standard Aftermarket Brands: Brands like Facet fall into this category. They offer a functional replacement at a budget-friendly price. While generally reliable for this type of simple switch, they may not have the same long-term durability as OE or premium aftermarket options.
Cost to Replace a Volvo S60 Brake Light Switch
This is a relatively inexpensive repair. The part itself is affordable, and the labor is minimal because the switch is easy to access.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Genuine Volvo) Part | $28 - $37 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $21 - $29 |
| Shop Labor | $55 - $140 |
| Total Professional Repair | $85 - $170 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace the brake light switch myself?
Yes, this is a good DIY job for beginners. The switch is located on the brake pedal support bracket under the dashboard. You will need to remove a trim panel to access it, but it typically unclips from its mount and the wiring harness. The entire job should take less than an hour. 🎬 Watch: A quick guide to replacing the brake pedal sensor Be sure to disconnect the battery first to prevent any electrical shorts.
Are there any recalls for this part on my S60?
No. While there have been brake-related software recalls for much newer Volvo models, there are no active recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for a faulty brake light switch on the 2011-2017 Volvo S60.
Why can't I shift out of park?
The car's computer needs to receive a signal from the brake light switch before it will allow the shift interlock solenoid to release the gear selector. If the switch is broken, the car thinks your foot isn't on the brake, and you'll be stuck in Park as a safety precaution.
Do I need to adjust the new switch?
Most modern brake light switches for your Volvo are self-adjusting. During installation, you'll typically insert the new switch into the bracket with the brake pedal depressed, then release the pedal. As the pedal returns to its resting position, it pushes on the switch's plunger, which automatically sets it to the correct depth. Always test the brake lights after installation to confirm they work correctly.
🎬 See this walkthrough for testing and replacing the sensorHelpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 30773935 9494890
Located on the brake pedal support bracket. Self-adjusting plunger design. Connects to multiple vehicle systems including brake lights, cruise control, and shift interlock.
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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 S60: