Press brake to start question.
09-23-2014, 06:04 AM
#1
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
Press brake to start question.
The last couple days when starting the car the"press brake to start" message would come on. So I would take my foot off of the brake, put it back on and start the car. This morning it said the same thing and won't start. Just say's "press brake to start". Anyone know the problem? I'm assuming a switch? Thanks!!
09-23-2014, 06:18 AM
#3
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
09-23-2014, 06:42 AM
#4
Le Mans Master
There is no switch. There is a position sensor that tells the BCM computer the exact position at all times. The BCM watches the position and when it moves down from its previous position the BCM says you are pressing the brake pedal. So it sounds like there is an issue with the position sensor. Read the codes. There are 8 that could identify the specific issue with this sensor.
09-23-2014, 06:51 AM
#5
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
There is no switch. There is a position sensor that tells the BCM computer the exact position at all times. The BCM watches the position and when it moves down from its previous position the BCM says you are pressing the brake pedal. So it sounds like there is an issue with the position sensor. Read the codes. There are 8 that could identify the specific issue with this sensor.
09-23-2014, 08:05 AM
#6
Le Mans Master
BCM - Body Control Module. That is the computer that supervises and controls most of the body functions as opposed to the ECM (Engine Control Module) that handles the engine and transmission.
You can stop and Wal-Mart and get a code reader. They are $25 on the Internet and $50 at Wal-Mart. Any auto parts store will have them also. You don't need an expensive one but, like a simple tool kit, everyone needs one.
You can stop and Wal-Mart and get a code reader. They are $25 on the Internet and $50 at Wal-Mart. Any auto parts store will have them also. You don't need an expensive one but, like a simple tool kit, everyone needs one.
09-23-2014, 08:14 AM
#8
Le Mans Master
I know Autozone rents tools but not a code reader. They will read the codes for you but it is such a quick job to do in the parking lot they don't have a procedure to let you keep the tool. Problem is the OP can't get the car started so he can't take it to a auto place to get the codes read for free.
09-23-2014, 06:40 PM
#9
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
Got home this afternoon and tried to start it again, still said the same. Then went back and pushed the brake harder than usual. It started and has started ever since. Oh well??
09-23-2014, 10:41 PM
#10
Team Owner
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I am guessing this is unique to auto cars, in my 6mn I just have to depress the clutch to start. It sounds like the brake switch is either on its way out, or is out of adjustment. I know on older cars the switch could be moved back and fourth. Do your brake lights work ? Do you hear the relay clicking from under the passenger side when you press the brake pedal ? Maybe the switch was pushed to the end of its adjustment and now only engages at the very end of the brake pedal travel.
If one or two days a little pressure works..
09-24-2014, 05:52 AM
#12
Burning Brakes
Thread Starter
I am guessing this is unique to auto cars, in my 6mn I just have to depress the clutch to start. It sounds like the brake switch is either on its way out, or is out of adjustment. I know on older cars the switch could be moved back and fourth. Do your brake lights work ? Do you hear the relay clicking from under the passenger side when you press the brake pedal ? Maybe the switch was pushed to the end of its adjustment and now only engages at the very end of the brake pedal travel.
09-24-2014, 10:44 AM
#13
Drifting
I have a '12 GS...A6
MT
09-24-2014, 11:16 AM
#14
Melting Slicks
Some mornings my brake booster sill has some vacuum, I believe, making the brake pedal an easy push. Other mornings it doesn't, causing a stiff pedal.