2003 Silverado 1500 parking brake dash light and audible alarm on constantly

[rpsuede]

Two days ago my '03 Silverado stopped recognizing when I pop the parking brake loose and now dings incessantly while I drive and the parking brake light on the dash flashes on and off.

I tried...

1.) Engaging and releasing the parking brake multiple times.
2.) Checked the brake fluid level (perfect level)
3.) Checked my owner's manual (not enough info in the manual)

Before I take this to an auto shop, is there anything I can do myself to potentially fix this issue? Is this a common problem with an easy solution. I am handy with electronics, so if it is a simple electric switch replacement I could probably do it myself. I will be swinging by an auto parts store on my way home today to look at the service manual for the truck to see if there is anything in there.

Thanks,

Richard

[brcidd]

At the base of the parking brake, there should be a mechanical switch and a wire that plugs into it-- check it- bend it back a little- it is probably just stuck on, or the light blue wire to it is touching a metal ground-- it is probably that simple- you may have kicked it with your foot at some time and cause it to ground out all the time...

[rpsuede]

Thanks. I'll check it out. I did try to wedge my hand back there yesterday and thought I felt a switch, but it is a really tight space. I'm going to have to get in there with a flashlight to take a real look at it. I hope it's that simple. This constant "ding, ding, ding, ding, ding, ding..." is really annoying while I drive. I have to blast the stereo to mask it.

Thanks again,

R

[rpsuede]

Well, I went to AutoZone auto parts store here in Phoenix and the service manual was no help at all. When I have a chance I will get out a flashlight and look for the switch and wires, etc.

R

[jwlambert]

@brcidd - Thanks for the tip. I did have to grab a flashlight to see in that area but it didn't take too long after that to bend the switch in the right direction to get the LOUD alarm to shut off. My ears are still ringing. Thanks!

BTW: this was for a 2004 Chevy Silverado 2500 Crew Cab

[jaxsmom]

How do I find this switch. I reached under and find nothing. 03 Suburban

[jwlambert]

It was way back under the brake and I couldn't see it without a light. You won't find it from just feeling around.

[jaxsmom]

Thanks. I know nothing about cars - so, will wait until my husband gets home. I did use a flashlight and felt all the way back - to where the straight metal from the pedal goes - but it is connected to something else. Is it under there?

[jwlambert]

On my truck it was behind the metal pedal arm on another metal support. I believe the part I bent was a flat copper and plastic arm. Good luck.