[Ginich]

1995 Toyota Camry station wagon No problems until I got home and the rear lights and rear door light won't turn off. I looked for a brake switch under the brake and can't find it. I found wires under the mat but nothing to indicate that they go to the rear lights so I'm afraid to pull the plug and my battery won't turn over now. Never had this problem before.

[TxGreaseMonkey]

You need to disconnect the negative battery cable, for now. Most auto parts stores will recharge batteries for free.

Brake Lights Stay On (Disintegrated Brake Switch Pedal Pad)

Brake switch pedal pads get brittle and disintegrate, over time. They are about the size of a LifeSaver and are often royal blue. If you see pieces laying on the driver's side floor mat, and the brake lights are on or your battery is unexpectedly dead, remove the lower dash panel and press a new pedal pad (Honda Part No. 46505-SA5-000) into the pedal arm hole. The replacement part is white and retails for $2.15. If you drive an older Honda, it's a good idea to replace it proactively, so you don't get stranded. While you are doing this, it's a good idea to also replace the clutch pedal pad--it uses the same pad.

TRICK: If the plunger on the brake light switch prevents you from being able to press in a new pedal pad, take an X-ACTO knife or box cutter and cut 3/16" or 5 mm from the pad's "cone." Have a friend depress the brake pedal, while you insert the pad. For better access, remove the driver's seat--carefully remove the seat belt connector, before lifting the seat out.