1997 850 brake lights not working - Volvo Forums

sccadsr31 · #1 10-28-2009, 03:58 PM

I’m working on our 1997 850 2.4l non-turbo. No brake lights, the fuse is ok and I’m going today to look at the switch to see how to get the wiring harness off to jumper the pins and see if it lights. Does anyone have any suggestion on how best to get the harness off the switch and out of the bracket? Same question for the cruse control switch below it?
I understand there is some kind of a relay in the system located in the trunk on the driver side, can anyone tell me where that is and what it does?

This car is new to me and I purchased a DVD manual which is the most user unfriendly software possible. Suggestions on where to get repair manuals for this car, 1997? I have found some for a 1995 but it looks like the wiring color codes are different.

I’m also having trouble getting it through smog (NO at 15mph) but that will be a separate question when I understand the system a bit better.

Thanks in advance for help and advice.

David

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rspi · #2 10-28-2009, 10:58 PM

Hi David, it's best to seach the 850 section for brake light problems. If they do not work, have you tried the switch where you press on the brake peddal? Try adjusting that in a little first.

sccadsr31 · #3 11-06-2009, 07:23 PM

I did some searches on brake lights and there were a couple but not much that helped. Finally decided to just get another switch and after having it in my hand I could see how to get it out.
The barke peddle has to be depressed and a sleeve pulled out to allow the tabs to be pressed in before the switch can be removed. Now keeping the peddle depressed was not easy and I resorted to wood work ( picture below) and then I could finally get at the connector which is another removal challenge.
On e-bay I have purchased a Haynes manual and the VADIS CD.
David

The white sleeve has to be pulled out as in the picture, it is pushed into the switch when installed

A little wood work and the peddle was depressed

This connector is a pain to remove

mhutchens · #4 11-07-2009, 08:27 PM

I love the custom made pedal pusher!

Those connectors make appearances all over these cars and if you can get a little flat blade screw driver under one of the tabs it'll help pop it out. I'll bet with the limited room under the dash it is a bit of a magic trick.

FYI, the bulb-malfunction relay for the brake and tail lights is in the trunk, drivers side behind the carpet.