'97 Silverado brakelight problem

[Crazytibz]

Hi everyone. I've owned my truck almost two years and have been scratching my head ever since over a brakelight issue. It seems as though there may be a "dead spot" in the switch, but it looks difficult to get to so I haven't messed with it yet.

Here's the deal. The brake lights activate immediately when the pedal is depressed, but they shut off at about 50% pedal travel. If you push the pedal all the way, the lights will come back on. Basically, under normal braking, the vehicle behind me only sees a brief flash of my brakelights.

Has anyone experienced this or can you confirm that it is as simple as a switch replacement? Thanks.

[SpitAndDirt]

Replace the brake lamp switch. Kinda sucks trying to get to though, just take your time and don't get frustrated. Common problem. And in the future, dont be surprised if your tail lamp boards that screw into the back of your OEM lenses go out because of moisture buildup. This causes one lamp assembly to work and other to act funny, or both may go out together, but unlikely. Hope this solves your problem -Chris

[Jeremy-WI]

If the brake light on the cab acts the same way then its probably the switch

[Crazytibz]

Thanks. I'm glad to know it's a common problem. I hate just throwing parts at my vehicles before finding the REAL solutions. I know whatt you mean about the taillights. While I haven't encountered the problem yet at 105k miles, It seems that at least 50% of these trucks in my area have the problem you've described.