Brake lights don't work

140

Asked by Oroblanco Sep 07, 2014 at 01:42 AM about the 1991 GMC Sierra 1500 C1500 SLE Extended Cab SB

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I was told it was the brake light switch, replaced that and no effect.  All the tail lights work including the 4 way flashers , and all the bulbs and fuses are sound; there is no electricity on the fuse lugs to the brake lights however.  Any suggestions?

7 Answers

63,145

There was a recall by GM for problems on that model but not so sure if it was that year. Give Chevy a jingle and ask.

4 people found this helpful.
140

I checked there was no recall for the K 1500 for this problem. Thank you though. Have tried some new experiments, found a broken off wire to the steering column, re-connected it and the brake lights come on and STAY on constantly even with the ignition off. The only way to get them OFF was by pulling the fuse for the 4 way flashers. I am now thoroughly puzzled.

7 people found this helpful.
63,145

By chance when you replaced the brake switch did you get the right one? Is the switch adjustable? And just how did the wire get broken in the first place. Hmmmm. .......... Hmmmm. It's something simple. You got the brake light to go on. Now what is it going to take it to work properly. Let's keep thinking about this.

15 people found this helpful.
140

Finally got this brake light issue repaired. The cut white wire on the turn signal connection was the key, and had to adjust the new brake light switch but now works perfectly. The previous owner had done some wiring under the dash and must have accidently cut that wire, found more wire damage to repair as well but wanted to thank you for your help. This problem turned out to be a combo of a bad brake light switch and a cut or broken wire (white) into the turn signal switch connector.

7 people found this helpful.
120

Looks to have been a while since you posted this question, but here's the answer for those with the same question: On my 89 GMC with a Manual 5- speed trans. The backup switch is located on the driver's side of the tranny, near the top (see #14 on diagram). You can easily access it from underneath the truck. When I bought my truck for $700.00, I had to replace that switch to get my backup lights to work. Two years later, every time I shifted into reverse I blew the 15-amp fuse that also powered my turn signals. I traced the problem to the newer switch shorting out internally to ground. Since my B/U switch was still under warranty, I got a free replacement and swapped it out. Works perfectly again. Good luck!

4 people found this helpful.
20

Why does the brake light work when the fuse box has no power on a GMC sierra

2 people found this helpful.

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