Is there a way to modify the standard brake light system so that the brake lights come on earlier? I found this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lg8ixpQodgU  but surely there is something simpler?

I have quite large brakes on my car so in normal traffic it doesn't take much pedal application to make the car slow, but as a gentlemen told me yesterday at a set of lights, my brake lights weren't on. They work perfectly when pressed slightly harder, but it's something that I'm now very wary about. Any ideas?

regards
Jak

I sure that you could fit a brake light switch inside on the pedal rod , under the carpet,
a little VT commodore switch on a small bit of angle mounted on floor . and a small plate on the rod for the button to stop on ,when you push the brakes the rod and plate would move forward making the brake light switch button pop out making the brake lights come on.
I did a similar set up on my Kombi
the cruise control switch works 2 ways

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/BRAKE-STOP-LAMP-LIGHT-SWITCH-SUIT-HOLDEN-COMMODORE...

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Genuine-Holden-New-Brake-Light-Switch-to-suit-VR-V...

there are smaller switches, you could even mount it on the floor in front of the pedals with the button pushing on the end of the rod using that .

It may fix it by renewing the standard switches.

Hi

I've had the same issue with older switches, it can also be a build up of sludge in the opening in the switch. It wouldn't be hard to fit a mechanical switch but none of them are as neat as the VW design

Steve

You could also try a motorbike mechanical brake light switch, they are adjustable to get the right timing. Most are about $22 aftermarket.

Thanks for all the replies guys, I'll try a new switch first & see how it goes

I run silicone brake fluid which chews out the seals on standard switches, so I have set up a microswitch operating off the pedal. This setup can be adjusted so the lights come on when you just breathe on the pedal.
If fitting a new hydraulic switch, I would think you may have to bleed the brakes but I may be wrong
Cheers....wayne

If you are quick changing it you can get away without bleeding it but it generally doesn't hurt to give them a good flush out. Let me know if you do want a motorbike switch, I can get a pic of a few different styles from work.

I fitted a new hydraulic switch to our beetle. Just did the instant swap old for new, and the pedal doesn't feel any different, so did not have to bleed.

put a new switch in the MC, bled the brakes, much much better, lights come on almost instantly

What switch did you end up going with?