The brake light switch on a Nissan Altima controls the illumination of the brake lights. Without the switch, the lights would not go on. The switch has no service life, so when it goes, it usually happens suddenly. New brake light switches can be obtained from Nissan or from a Nissan dealership.
Remove the cotter pin from the pin bolt that holds the brake pedal to the brake booster with a pair of pliers. There is a small cotter pin running through the brake pedal to brake booster connection. You need to pull this cotter pin out to remove the larger pin that holds the brake pedal to the brake booster.
Slide the pin out of the brake booster mounting bracket.
Pull up on the brake pedal to slide it out of the brake booster mounting bracket.
Remove the bolts holding the brake switch to the firewall using a socket wrench.
Remove the electrical connector on the brake switch by pulling it straight off the switch.
Slide the switch off the firewall.
Install the new switch. Installation is the reverse of removal. Make sure that you replace the cotter pin in the brake booster to brake pedal connection. The cotter pin prevents the retaining pin in the brake booster mounting bracket from coming off.
