I've read several threads and would like to see if I am missing anything trying to diagnose this pesky problem:

1.) I pulled the brake light switch and both microswitches have continuity. I thought it was the problem as the metal support showed light corrosion and one end prong had some slight green tinge but I do not belive it is the problem as it tests out on the bench.

2.) Tested all rear bulbs and they are goood.

3.) Tested rear ground for lights and it is good.

4.) Tested all fuses in trunk and on each side of dash and they are good.

5.) Use power probe and with key on I am getting voltage at the two middle wires on the plug going to the switch (11.7) and (5) on the one beside it.

I would like to power probe and activate the brake lights from under the dash but do not know where to initiate the 12V?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

Taking a shot in the dark here. It sounds like electrically everything checks out. Could there be something amiss with the mechanical operation of the brake pedal operating the switch? Switch out of alignment with pedal? Can you operate the switch manually to test?

 

The brake switch has these 2 switches wired in opposite. One is (N)ormally (O)pen, the other is wired (N)ormally (C)losed. These should not provide continuity at the same time.

Normally, if you connect the brake switch, but not mount it, i.e. the switch is not engaged, it is the same as your foot being on the brakes and the brake lights should light up (ignition on).

There is wiring/logic to activate a release solenoid for the shifter. In a quiet environment, you can hear a "thump" in the front/left side of the shifter surround trim. You should be able to feel it as well with your fingers in the same area. There is a plastic plug that can be removed to bypass this solenoid if need be.

 

The switches also are not activated at the same time.
If you press the pedal slowly you can hear two distinct 'clicks' in rapid sequence.

 

The problem with 2006 XKR, VIN - as displayed in the instrument cluster - A44773, remains unsolved. (because of some health issues I did not work on the car for a few months). I bought this car to replace my aging and rusting xk8. It was advertised with malfunctioning shifter release switch. After checking Jaguar web sites, all pointing to a faulty brake switch, I drove it without other problems 400 miles home. Problems started after I removed, checked and re-installed the brake switch.The warning "electrical/suspension fault" appeared and the brake lights stopped working.

When I turn the ignition on warning lights in tachometer do not come on at all.

My scanner started to read a number of fault codes, but with most the scanner reads only “communication fault” - TCM, RCM,DDM,ADHLS -L/R, ADRC, ABS, IP.

When opening a driver’s door a speedometer shows the mileage and it stays on till the ignition is turned on and system check routine is performed without “check engine” and “airbag” lights showing. When scanning the scanner starts downloading data from BPM for about 4 minutes. At that moment instrument panel goes off - completely black. After another minute the heater blower goes on at full speed for 30 secs. When it stops the inst.panel goes alive again with the same messages. Scanner keeps "scanning" that cannot be stopped unless I disconnect it from the terminal.

Update. I have removed an instrument cluster. Somebody was there before me, because the printed circuit board inside the cluster was not bolted in. All small metal sheet screws are missing. No visible damage on board. I have checked those three power transistors (NPN) and they seemed to be OK. I also found out that the cluster is an replacement from 2004 XKR (11/5/2004 sicker on the cluster). Any advice, please?