Ford Focus rear brake lights stuck on?

Question

My ZX5 has developed a problem with the rear lights. I discovered that all my center bulbs were burned out and the housing is somewhat melted as if the lights were on for a very long time. Replacing them has no effect as it seems there is no longer any power leading up to the unit at all.

That's when I discovered the bigger problem: When the engine is running/On and car is in PARK, nothing seems amiss. The brake lights (the ones not burned out) function normally. Step on the brake pedal and the lights come on. Release the pedal and the lights go out.

However, when the car is in Drive, Reverse, Neutral, or anything other than PARK, the brake lights are continually on without stepping on the pedal. Only use of the turn signals and emergency flasher interrupts them.

In addition, the cruise control has stopped working. I also have a 2004 Focus ZX3, so I swapped both of the brake pedal switches, but nothing changed. There must be a control module somewhere that is both turning the brake lights on and wrongly telling the cruise control that the brakes are being applied, but I do not know what/where it is. All fuses have been checked. Any ideas?

Thanks - TomR

Answer 1

heres your problem.

your driving a ford.

:0

Answer 2

TRY TO CHECK ALL THE BULBS YOU REPLACED AND MAKE SURE THAT YOU PUT TH SAME FILIMENT BULBS BACK IN .SOUNDS LIKE IT IS BACK FEEDING THRU THE SYSTEM.

Answer 3

you need a new brake light switch on that one,when they burn out or get out of adjustment that's what they do,you,ll have to replace it before you replace any of the light parts or it will do this again,good luck.the light switch is located on the upper part of the brake pedal,very easy to replace.

Answer 4

sounds like when it melted, it shorted something out. id suggest an electrical shop for a diagnosis and repair