jeffk14

Hi. Did a search and found similar issues, but none exactly like mine. 2000 Accord, 2-door, 4 cyl, auto trans. Car will not shift out of park. Brake lights DO NOT work. Looking at the brake switch or the fuse. I want to check the fuse first, but none of the fuses are labeled "brake lights". Don't have a wiring diagram. Can anybody point me to where the fuse is located? Thanks.

tamadrummer1120

Hey man, I did some circuit diagram chasing for you. The only problem is I do not have the circuit diagrams for the 6th gens, but I have it for the 5th gens. On the 5th gen, in the underhood fuse box, the fuse #30 controls the brake light switch and the key interlock switch. So it may be possible the fuse #30 is the same for the 6th gens under hood dash panel. Try it out, if that fuse is ok, then check the brake light switch mounted on the brake pedal.

Samir

I'd pull each fuse until you find one that's blown. Hopefully, this will solve your problem. If it doesn't, then this sounds like a brake light switch problem. I have the same problem in my 95 Altima.

There is a small switch on the brake pedal arm which determines when your brake lights are on and is also used in automatic transmission cars as part of the shift lock system. If this switch goes bad, then you have symptoms exactly like you've described.

See if you can move the shift lever into N right after putting in the key or after turning the key to the first notch. If you can, you should be able to start your car and use it. Two caveats to this--you can't shift into park and then back out unless you turn off the car and repeat the process, and you have NO BRAKE LIGHTS.

Hopefully, it's the fuse.

stereo69

I say bad brake switch it's a common problem !

ControlNode

Of course if you have to go somewhere you can use the key in the shift override slot to put the car in N, then start it and drive. BUT, I highly advise against driving without brake lights. But if you have to move the car to get another vehicle out of the driveway to use it is good.

Samir

I've got a 5th gen (94 lx) and haven't had this problem, but just for future reference, how hard is it to change the switch?

The Altima is a super pain! I have the part and just can't get the old one out.