how to replace switch for parking bank instrument panel light?

[dderolph]

I have a '91 Accord. For a few weeks now, the red light on the instrument panel that indicates the parking brake is set remains on, even though I have released the parking brake. A mechanic said this is due to a switch malfunction and he said accessing this switch requires removing the panel around the parking brake handle. But, I'm not sure I understood him correctly. So, I'm thinking it's more complicated than just removing that panel.

I guess I'll try removing the the panel. I see a screw on each side toward the front. I'm guessing the panel can be removed by removing those two screws and pulling the panel forward and upward to get it up off the brake handle.

If anyone can post details about replacing that switch, I'd appreciate it.

[dderolph]

Perhaps I should have mentioned the light is slightly dimmer when the parking brake is released but is almost as bright as when the parking brake is set.

[somick]

Did you make sure you have enough brake fluid?

This light comes on either when the hand brake is set or when your brake fluid gets low.

There is a TSB for my 99 Accord that states that there is not enough ventilation in the master cylinder with the original strainer and that keeps the float up and sets the light on. So make sure the float in the master cylinder can easily go up and down and your strainer is clean.

Good luck,
Sam