Ford does it *again* (more fires)

I guess I haven't run across this specific Ford brake switch but it sounds like it measures *brake fluid pressure* -- assuming that the report is accurate. If this is true, why don't they use a momentary NO switch on the brake pedal (mechanically) like everyone else? And I'm not trying to sound smarter than Ford engineers, but seriously, to activate the brake lights, signal the ECM of braking, and/or cut cruise operation -- I would much rather monitor brake pedal motion. It would be fine and dandy to have a pressure transducer AS WELL, for double checking purposes. If a transducer were to fail it would pose a low current, 5 volt threat to the brake fluid only with the key on verses a

Toyota MDT in MO

Oddly enough every single car I own uses a pressure-type brake light switch, at least two of which have hot feeds all the time. Hardly-Ableson uses the exact same switch as the old Studebakers to this day. Usual failure mode of the switch is that the brake lights stop working, with no other ill effects.

Sounds to me like the problem is not with the concept but with Ford spec'ing (or accepting) an inferior quality product.

nate

No, the ignition switch is the primary unattended burn down device, the pressure switch is the backup for the ignition switch.

JazzMan

///////// But GM is laying off workers ! Go figure.

"Fix it now or pay later"