Chevrolet Spark Brake Pedal Position Sensor Guide (2013-2022)
Solving brake light and cruise control problems in your 2013-2022 Chevrolet Spark starts with this sensor.
- A faulty brake pedal position sensor is a common cause of erratic brake lights and cruise control failure on the 2013-2022 Spark.
- Replacement is NOT plug-and-play. The new sensor must be calibrated to the car's computers (BCM and ECM) with a scan tool.
- If your brake lights don't work, it is a critical safety issue. If they are stuck on, your battery may drain.
- Both ACDelco and Standard Ignition are reliable aftermarket brands for this part.
Is Your Chevy Spark Acting Strange? It Could Be the Brake Pedal Sensor
If you own a 2013-2022 Chevrolet Spark and are experiencing weird electrical issues, the brake pedal position sensor is a common part to check. This sensor is more than just a simple switch for your brake lights; it's a key messenger that talks to multiple computer systems in your car. When it fails, it can cause confusing symptoms that might not seem related to the brakes at first.
Symptoms of a Failing Sensor in a Chevy Spark
A bad brake pedal position sensor can make your car act erratically. Spark owners have reported specific problems that point to this part failing. You might need a replacement if you notice:
- Brake lights won't turn off: 🎬 Watch: Troubleshooting brake lights that won't turn off The lights might stay on even when you're not touching the pedal, which can drain your battery.
- Brake lights won't turn on: This is a serious safety hazard. The sensor might fail to send the signal that you're braking.
- Erratic brake lights: Owners have described the lights acting "wonky," turning on and off randomly while driving.
- Cruise control won't work: The system may not set, or it might shut off unexpectedly. A GM service bulletin specifically notes that an out-of-sync sensor can prevent cruise control from engaging.
- Check Engine Light: A fault in the sensor can trigger a check engine light and store a trouble code like P057C.
- Car won't start: Your Spark may require a signal that the brake pedal is pressed before it will start. A failed sensor can prevent this.
A Critical Installation Note: Calibration is Required!
Replacing the brake pedal position sensor is not a simple plug-and-play job on the Chevrolet Spark. After the new sensor is installed, it must be calibrated using a compatible scan tool. This process, called a "relearn," syncs the new sensor with both the Body Control Module (BCM) and the Engine Control Module (ECM). Skipping this step will likely result in the new part not working correctly, and the original symptoms will continue. One owner reported this exact issue, where a mechanic who swapped the part without calibration couldn't fix the problem.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
For the 2013-2022 Spark, you have good aftermarket options that can save you money compared to going to the dealer. The main brands you'll find are ACDelco and Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products).
- ACDelco: ACDelco offers GM's official Original Equipment (OE) parts, but they also have aftermarket lines like their "Professional" and "Advantage" series. For an electronic part like this, choosing their GM Genuine or Professional line is a safe bet, as it's designed to meet the original specifications.
- Standard Ignition (SMP): Standard is a very well-known and respected aftermarket brand for electronic components. They produce quality parts that are often considered equivalent to OE. Many professional mechanics trust and use Standard parts without hesitation.
The Verdict: Both ACDelco and Standard Ignition are solid choices for your Spark. ACDelco has the advantage of being the original supplier to GM. However, Standard Motor Products has a long-standing reputation for quality. Given that both require the same calibration procedure, your choice can confidently come down to price and availability.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor (ACDelco, Standard) | $20 - $75 |
| Shop Labor for Installation & Calibration | $75 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any recalls for the Spark's brake pedal sensor?
No. As of early 2026, there are no specific safety recalls on the brake pedal position sensor for the 2013-2022 Chevrolet Spark. Searches on the NHTSA database show recalls for other brake components on different GM vehicles, but not this specific part and model.
What is a TSB and does it apply here?
A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) is a notice from the manufacturer to dealers about common problems and recommended repairs. TSB #16-NA-155 was issued for some GM vehicles because the brake pedal sensor could get out of sync and cause cruise control issues. The fix is to perform the sensor relearn procedure, which confirms the importance of calibration after replacement.
🎬 Watch: A quick tip on the sensor relearn procedureCan I replace this sensor myself?
Physically swapping the sensor is easy for a DIYer. It's located above the brake pedal and held by a bolt. 🎬 See this walkthrough on how to replace the sensor However, the job is not complete without the electronic calibration. You must have access to a scan tool that can perform the BCM and ECM relearn procedure for GM vehicles. If you don't have this tool, you will need to take it to a shop after installing the part.
My mechanic replaced the sensor but the brake lights are still stuck on. What's wrong?
The most likely cause is that the new sensor was not calibrated. The Chevrolet Spark requires a specific "relearn" procedure to be performed with a scan tool so the car's computers can recognize the new part correctly. The sensor itself is likely fine; it just needs to be properly introduced to the vehicle's system.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13597429 25912943
Also known as: Brake Light Switch. Location: Mounted to the bracket above the brake pedal. Electrical Connector: Typically a 3-pin connector.
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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.
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