How to Replace the Brake Switch Top Rubber on the New Mondeo?
3 Answers
The brake switch is located above the brake pedal, where a spring contact presses against the connecting rod of the brake pedal. The protective cover is the base plate above the brake. After removing the protective cover, you can see the light switch above the brake pedal. Pinch the clips on both sides with your hand to easily pull it out. This switch features a twist-lock design; it cannot be pulled out by force. To remove it, grasp the switch and twist it to the left. DIY operation is not recommended.
Replacing the brake switch bumper is actually not difficult. I've done it several times in my own garage. First, remove the trim panel under the steering wheel - don't worry about the clips, just give it a firm pull. Then lie down under the driver's seat with a flashlight to locate the small black rubber block above the brake pedal. The old bumper is usually cracked or deformed; you can remove it by gripping with needle-nose pliers and twisting side to side. The new bumper costs about 30 yuan with free shipping online - make sure to align the groove with the metal rod of the switch, then press firmly until you hear a click. Key point: After installation, you must start the engine and test the brake lights by pressing the pedal. If the lights stay on constantly, it means the bumper isn't properly seated and needs readjustment. The whole process takes about half an hour, and you don't even need to open your full toolbox.
As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I've noticed that the Mondeo's brake pedal bump stop is particularly prone to aging. The key challenge during replacement is the extremely tight working space, so it's best to have an automotive inspection mirror handy. When removing the old rubber stop, avoid prying it forcefully—gripping the edge with your fingernail and twisting makes it come off more easily. Before installing the new rubber, I recommend applying a tiny dab of grease for smoother operation. Installation depth is crucial: too shallow and it won't contact the switch, too deep and it'll cause the brake lights to stay on permanently. My specialty is fine-tuning the position—the ideal standard is having the brake lights activate with about 3mm of pedal travel. If the new rubber doesn't fit snugly, wrapping a layer of electrical tape in the groove to add thickness works perfectly—I've tested this trick three times with consistent success.