Brake Lamp: Description and Operation

STOP LAMPS

The brake pedal position sensor is used to sense the action of the driver application of the brake pedal. The brake pedal position sensor provides an analog voltage signal that will increase as the brake pedal is applied. The body control module (BCM) provides a low reference signal and a 5-volt reference voltage to the brake pedal position sensor. When the variable signal reaches a voltage threshold indicating the brakes have been applied, the BCM will apply battery positive voltage to the stop lamps, transmission control module (TCM), engine control module (ECM), and stop lamp relay coil side. The BCM also supplies the stop lamp relay coil with ground. When the stop lamp relay receives battery voltage and ground from the BCM, the relay coil is energized and the stop lamp relay switch contacts close applying battery voltage through the STOP/B/U/LPS fuse to illuminate the center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL). Ground for the stop lamps and CHMSL is applied at G302. The stop lamps on this vehicle will not illuminate unless the ignition is in the accessory, run, or crank positions. When the ignition is in the OFF position the stop lamps will not illuminate when the brake pedal is applied.