I have a 2004 Ford Escape XLT that recently developed a problem with the brake lights not working and the shifter not going out of park without pushing the manual override on the column. I checked the fuse and it is not blown. Removed the brake pedal switch and tested with a meter. It appears to be working properly. I have not made a jumper yet to see if the lights work without the switch in place, but does anyone have an idea as to what may be going on or what else to look at or for? Thanks in advance!!!

 

1. Verify mechanical adjustment of switch to ensure it actuates when the brake pedal is pressed.

2. Verify fuse F24 is providing power (that doesn't mean to stare at it and declare it 'good', it means to TEST it). Power from the fuse is provided on the LG/RD wire at the switch connector. The output of the switch is on the LG wire.

3. Check for broken wires inside the insulation within several inches of the brake pedal switch. It's fairly common.

 

Bigdog ... Check out the thread '01 Escape Stuck in Park; Interlock. I had the same problem including brake light problem. Problem was a corroded ground lug on the battery tray.

 

If you go back and read the first post in your original thread, you stated that your brake lights worked.

The ground lug on the battery tray is not involved in the operation of the brake lights.