2016 Ram 2500 Brake light switch calibration.

[J-13GTP]

Hey guys I recently broke my tail light switch and had to have a calibration done. I had a local shop running a snap on diagnostics tool run the calibration. They started talking with ABS module and ran the calibration. Everything seemed fine until a few miles down the road I get a service electric braking system. I'm getting a P1C4E and P0572 code.

The P0572 code is for brake switch circuit low. I believe this code is setting off the P1C4E code. The P1C4E code is a general trouble code for the ABS module. However the tail lights are working correctly.

Everything on the truck was working fine before the replacement switch and calibration. Could I have a bad part or maybe something else needed to be calibrated. I believe its something in the software that needs to be changed or calibrated maybe not just the ABS module. Does any one have any insight. Its possible my mechanic missed a step in the process.

 

[Jeepwalker]

Mechanics screw up all the time. Just to verify things ....First thing I would do is to put my head down by the pedal and make sure the actual switch is installed 'correctly', it's seated in the holder ....and the wires are connected right...ie, the connector didn't pop out.

Secondly...as I remember, if a guy removed the switch and wiggles the switch plunger, it'll retract out. Once out you can re-install it and push down on the pedal and get the actual switch calibrated...to the pedal. These switches weigh about 10 grams and I've gone through a couple. I wouldn't call them a high-quality item, Clark. Replacing the switch itself is a pretty easy DIY job for most people, and they're avail from Amazon.

I'd probably unhook the battery for a while when you get home, and re-connect (make sure your batt connections are clean). See if that does it. Or else take the tk back and let them know they didn't finish the job.

 

[J-13GTP]

Turned out the aftermarket brake switch wasn't playing nice with the ABS system. Had to go with a different switch and get it calibrated again.

 

[Jeepwalker]

Glad you got it fixed.

 

[Jeepwalker]

For the sake of closing the loop on diagnosing brake switch problems, it usually leaves a code in the computer.

But a DIY guy can also back-probe the switch wires with a multi-meter in the continuity position, and test that way. Or observe on/off readings via real-time scanner (like OBDlink or ALFAobd, etc) if you have one. To test, push and let up on the brake pedal 25-30 times and watch each time for the switch to open/close as it should. Sometimes on switches as they get flaky they might work 'most' of the time, or 'some' of the time...but fail some times too. And that's all it takes to set a code. If you see inconsistencies, then the switch is faulty. And they're relatively easy to install in about 15 minutes (and Y/T videos to help). There've been a few forum members who've had bad luck with aftermarket switches too.


If yer not a DIY guy, and you go to a dealership with a brake switch problem they will usually change the brake switch on the spot (or as soon as they can get to you) because it's a safety issue. Or at least that's what a couple (non Ram) dealers have told me. And it's a 5 min swap for a mechanic who's done it a few times. Cheers.