Recall 96V-111: brake light switch can stick on or off
Added · Updated
What causes "Recall 96V-111: brake light switch can stick on or off" on the BMW 3 Series (E36, 1992-1999), and how is it fixed?
The brake light switch can fail in either position, so following drivers cannot tell when the car is stopping. Fix: Dealers fitted a redesigned switch.
Symptoms
Brake lights stay off when braking, or stay on all the time.
Cause
The brake light switch can fail in either position, so following drivers cannot tell when the car is stopping.
Fix (summary)
Dealers fitted a redesigned switch. Check by VIN.
Related build entries
Other E36 problems
- Cooling system plastics fail with age (pump impeller, tanks, thermostat housing)
- Rear shock mounts crack and can tear the body
- Rear subframe bushings wear, then mounts crack
- Power window regulators wear and jam
- Recall 98V-178: heater core end piece can split if the engine overheats
- Recall 97V-131: throttle or cruise cable bushing can break and hold the throttle open
More for this car
- All BMW 3 Series (E36, 1992-1999) fitment answers · E36 common problems
- Newsletter archive: past issues with every new and corrected entry
Sources
- NHTSA recall 96V-111: brake light switch (1992-94 325i, 1995 M3) — NHTSA (received 1 Jul 1996) (regulatory; read 2026-10-26; full page read)
Summaries are in our own words. Not repair instructions; consult the factory service manual.
Report a correction — spotted an error or have a better source? Email hello@chassisdex.com.