Ford Escape Brake Light Bulb Fault: 5 Causes and Fixes

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A Ford Escape brake light bulb fault usually traces back to a burnt-out bulb, a faulty brake light switch, a blown fuse, or a bad relay. Driving with it unresolved risks a rear-end collision and can fail a state inspection. This guide covers all 5 causes reported by Ford Escape owners and mechanics, with the exact fix for each.

There can be several causes for brake light bulb faults. But here I have listed the few most reported by Ford Escape owners and mechanics.

1. Burned-out brake light bulb
2. Faulty brake light switch
3. Blown fuse
4. Faulty brake light relay
5. Damaged brake light lens

However, you need a detailed troubleshooting guide to fix the brake light bulb fault. No worries, I will teach you everything here. Stay tuned and explore.

Ford Escape Brake Light Bulb Fault: Problems & Solutions

Before troubleshooting, I will teach you about the symptoms to identify if you have a brake light bulb fault.  Here are the few major symptoms that you may experience with brake light bulb fault in your Ford Escape:

1. Warning light on the dashboard
2. Flickering brake lights
3. Multiple brake light bulbs out
4. Reduced braking power

You may also experience the above symptoms when you have brake light bulb faults in Ford Ranger and Honda Accord.

Problem 1: Burnt Out Brake Light Bulb

A burnt-out bulb is the most occurring cause of brake light bulb faults in many vehicles. You cannot illuminate your Ford Escape brake lights until you replace the brake light bulb.

The burnt-out bulb is also common for Kia brake lights not working and 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees’ faulty brake light. Did you know? The burnt-out bulb is also a culprit of faulty Chevy truck brake lights.

Solution 1:

1. Switch off Ford Escape to avoid any electric shock
2. Take a screwdriver and unscrew the brake light cover screws
3. Once the screws are removed, remove the cover and check for the bulb. A burnt bulb can easily be identified.
4. If it burnt, remove it and install the new bulb. See our top pick and alternatives below.
5. Once replaced, Switch on the vehicle and press the brake paddle to test the light. Ensure it works fine; otherwise, go for the next solution.

Best Brake Light Bulb Pick

Philips 3157LLB2, 2-Pack – $12.99

The fix for Problem 1 in this guide — a burnt-out bulb, the single most common cause of this fault.

• Best for: Replacing a confirmed burnt-out brake light bulb
• Why we picked it: Longer-life filament than a standard bulb, 2-pack replaces both sides at once
• Main drawback: Won’t help if the real cause is the switch, fuse, or relay instead

View Our Pick on Amazon

Compare more brake light fault fixes

Option 1 Escape-Fit Switch – $11.99 Best for: Problem 2 in this guide, a faulty brake light switch under the dash Why we picked it: Direct-fit for 2009-2017 Escape, no wiring modifications needed Main drawback: Confirm your exact model year fits before ordering Check on Amazon

Option 2 Fuse Kit w/ Tester – $9.99 Best for: Problem 3, the blown fuse this guide identifies as a common cause Why we picked it: Built-in tester confirms a blown fuse before you start swapping parts Main drawback: Always match the amperage rating on the original fuse Check on Amazon

Option 3 Dielectric Grease – $8.99 Best for: Coating the new bulb socket contacts after any of these fixes to prevent repeat corrosion Why we picked it: Stops moisture from causing the same fault again down the road Main drawback: A maintenance step, not a fix for an existing fault on its own Check on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Problem 2: Faulty Brake Light Switch

The brake light switch is responsible for powering the brake light bulb. You will experience a 2016 ford escape brake light bulb fault if it is faulty. So, repair or replace the brake light switch to eliminate the problem.

Solution 2:

1. Locate the brake light switch under the dash near the brake pedal.
2. Disconnect the electrical connector from the switch.
3. Remove the switch by turning it counterclockwise.
4. Replace the faulty switch with a new one. I recommend Motorcraft SW6559 Brake Light Fail Switch for your Ford Escape. It is affordable and compatible with all Ford Escape models.
5. Reconnect the electrical connector and test the brake lights.

Problem 3: Blown Fuse

The brake light fuse must work properly. A blown fuse is a common cause of faulty brake light bulbs in many vehicles. If the fuse is blown, you need its replacement to eliminate it.

A blown fuse is also a most reported cause for brake light bulb faults by Honda Civic and Dodge Ram owners.

Solution 3:

1. Open the hood of your Dodge Ram to locate the fuse box
2. The fuse box will be near the engine
3. First, look at the diagram on the fuse and find the fuse for the brake lights.
4. Once identified, open the fuse box and check for the brake light fuse
5. If it is damaged or blown, remove it and mount a new fuse
6. Once done, test the brake lights to ensure the problem has been removed

Problem 4: Faulty Brake Light Relay

You must ensure that the brake light relay is working fine. If the brake light relay has a fault, you may experience a ford escape brake lamp bulb fault. If the relay is bad, you will need to replace it.

Solution 4:

1. Firstly, locate the brake light relay in the fuse box. 
2. Check for the bad relay. If it is bad, you will need to replace it. I recommend Nilight SPDT Relay for your Ford Escape. It is a long-performing and compatible relay.
3. Remove the old relay and replace it with a new one. 
4. Once replaced, test the brake lights to ensure the problem is removed.

Problem 5: Damaged Brake Light Lens

A damaged brake light lens can be the culprit for brake light bulb faults. You must check for the lens to ensure it is working fine. Otherwise, arrange for a replacement.

Solution 5:

1. First, locate the brake light assembly on the rear of the vehicle.
2. Carefully remove the screws or clips that secure the lens cover to the assembly.
3. Gently pull the lens cover away from the assembly and set it aside.
4. Check for the brake light lens; replace it if it is faulty.
5. It is good to check for the bulb; you may need to replace it.
6. Once done, test the brake lights and ensure they are working fine.

How to Replace Brake Light Switch Stopper?

Replacing a brake light switch stopper is an easy task that requires a few simple steps. Here is a step-by-step solution to assist you in replacing the brake light switch stopper:

1. First, locate the brake light switch under the brake pedal.
2. Use a flashlight to locate the stopper that has worn out and needs replacing.
3. Using pliers, carefully remove the old stopper from the brake light switch.
4. Next, insert the new stopper into the brake light switch.
5. Test the brake pedal to ensure the new stopper is secure and functioning properly.
6. Finally, turn on the car and test the brake lights to ensure they work as intended.

What is The 2014 Ford Escape Brake Light Fuse Location?

The brake light fuse on a 2014 Ford Escape is in the engine compartment fuse box. To locate the fuse box, open the hood and find the black plastic box near the battery. 

Open the box by pressing the two tabs on the front of the box and lifting the cover. Inside, you will see a diagram showing each fuse’s location. Look for the fuse labeled “Stop/Tail Lamps” or “Brake Lamps.”

What Are Common Brake Light Switch Problems Symptoms?

Common brake light switch problems can cause various symptoms. Here is a list of a few major symptoms.

1. Brake lights staying on or not turning on at all
2. The cruise control is not working
3. difficulty shifting out of the park
4. vehicle’s computer displays error codes related to the brake system

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Conclusion

Fixing the brake light bulb problems on a Ford Escape is simple. You can complete the task with simple skills and tools. However, it is essential to follow proper instructions and ensure safety precautions. Otherwise, calling a professional mechanic to eliminate the problem is better.