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philippsky1

VW Up Brake Light Switch Failure Fix Guide & Costs

Having trouble with my 2017 VW Up (gas, 31960km). The brake light keeps failing and throws an error in the infotainment system. Read out shows a stored error code. Pretty sure its the brake light switch acting up. Has anyone dealt with this before? Last mechanic visit wasnt great, so looking for advice on whether this is a common issue and if its a quick fix or needs a shop visit. How much should I expect to pay for the repair?

4 comment(s)

ida_baumann29

Had the same issue on my 2014 VW Polo TSI. The brake light switch required replacement after similar symptoms, error messages and intermittent brake light function. The brake light switch is a known wear item on VW models from this era. Its located above the brake pedal and can fail due to regular use. When it malfunctions, it causes the tail light and brake light systems to act erratically and store fault codes. This was a serious safety concern since other drivers cannot see when youre braking. The repair itself is straightforward, replacing the brake switch takes about 30 minutes for a qualified mechanic. The part is relatively inexpensive. While some DIY-experienced owners replace it themselves, having a shop do it ensures proper calibration and complete error code clearing. The brake switch also interfaces with several safety systems, so professional installation is recommended. Key symptoms that confirmed it was the switch: Intermittent brake light operation, Stored error codes, Warning messages on display, No brake lights when pressing pedal Would suggest having it checked soon since properly functioning brake lights are essential for safety.

philippsky1 (Author)

Thanks for confirming my suspicions about the brake light switch. My brake lights were also acting up intermittently and the error codes matched exactly what you described. Had it fixed at a shop last week and the brake lights are now working perfectly. The mechanic showed me the old switch which was pretty worn out after all the brake pedal usage. Just wondering what the repair cost you? Mine came to 85€ including parts and labor, which felt reasonable given how critical brake lights are for safety. Have you noticed any other electrical gremlins since getting the switch replaced? My tail lights and other systems seem fine now but always good to know what to watch for.

ida_baumann29

The brake light switch repair cost me nothing since it turned out to be user error in my case. The mechanic noticed I had accidentally knocked the switch connection loose while checking under the dash. A quick reconnection solved the electrical issue completely. Since fixing that loose connection, all brake system components and electrical functions have worked flawlessly. No warning lights or error codes have appeared in over 8 months. The tail lights and brake lights operate exactly as they should. Your 85€ repair cost sounds reasonable for a proper switch replacement. Its good you had it done professionally since the automotive switch interfaces with multiple safety systems. Much better to pay for proper installation than risk any brake light malfunction on the road.

philippsky1 (Author)

Good to hear everything worked out. Finally gave in and took it to a different shop than my usual mechanic. The new place diagnosed the brake light switch issue right away and had the part in stock. They knocked it out in about 20 minutes while I waited. Total came to 85€ which included the switch replacement and clearing the error codes. Money well spent since my brake lights are working perfectly now. The mechanic walked me through what they did and showed me the worn switch, definitely needed replacing. No electrical issues since the repair. All the tail lights work as they should and the error messages are gone from the dash. Really glad I got it sorted quickly given how important working brake lights are for safety. Much better experience than my last shop visit.

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