1999 C230 kompressor BAS/ARS Light

[Homer217]

Today while driving the BAS/ARS warning indicator came on. When restarting the car the light would be off and after driving for a min or two the light would come back on. Twice I turned the car off, and restarted holding the brake down for a minute or so. Once I disengaged the brake the light did not come on until I drove the car. I waited a couple hours and tried this approach again, after a minute I disengaged the brake the light didn't immediately turn on but it came on before I had to drive the car. After the BAS/ARS light came on I engaged the brakes and all the brake lights are working fine.

I checked the brake fluid and it looks good. I will be checking the battery voltage tomorrow.

I have read the brake light switch, above the brake pedal, replacement is the recommended fix.

Does anyone have any experience with this issue.

[OTTOBUNZ]

Be sure to get the updated switch from the dealer...the ebay ones fail

[anthonyb]

I've replaced mine twice in the last few years. It's a little tricky getting the switch out, mostly because you have to rotate it 90 degrees to unlock it before it comes out. You can look at the new switch to help figure out which way to rotate it. You also have to loosen some of the plastic fascia underneath the steering wheel.

[Homer217]

Thanks for the replies. I purchased a beck arnley brake light switch from autopartswarehouse.....after replacing the switch the BAS/ARS light has gone off so this seems to have fixed the problem. If the light comes back on due to the switch failing I will post reply. Also looking into the broken switch. If I'm able to repair, I will post pictures.

[Homer217]

The contact post inside the brake light switch had broken. It is unrepairable.