Studebaker Commander Brake Light Switch Guide (1954-1966)
Keep your classic Commander safe and legal by ensuring your brake lights work every time.
- A faulty brake light switch will either cause your brake lights to not work at all or stay on constantly.
- This is a critical safety part; driving with a bad switch is dangerous and illegal.
- Replacement is simple and very inexpensive, making it an easy DIY task for most owners.
- Aftermarket parts from brands like Standard Ignition (SMP) are the standard replacement and are a direct fit.
Is Your Studebaker's Brake Light Switch Failing?
For a straightforward part, the symptoms of failure are equally direct. On a classic vehicle like the Studebaker Commander, problems with the brake light switch are not subtle. Because this part is a simple on/off switch, its failure modes are binary and present immediate safety concerns.
Key Symptoms of a Bad Brake Light Switch:
- Brake Lights Do Not Turn On: This is the most common and dangerous symptom. When you press the brake pedal, the switch fails to complete the electrical circuit, and the brake lights do not illuminate. This poses a significant risk of a rear-end collision.
- Brake Lights Stay On Constantly: The switch can also fail in the 'on' position, causing the brake lights to remain illuminated even when you are not braking. This can confuse other drivers, drain your battery when the car is off, and wear out your brake light bulbs prematurely.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Light Switch
For vehicles from the 1950s and 60s, finding New Old Stock (NOS) or original equipment (OEM) parts is nearly impossible. The market for the Commander's brake light switch is served by new aftermarket manufacturers. Both Standard Ignition (also known as Standard Motor Products or SMP) and Rostra Powertrain are established brands that produce replacement electrical components.
- Standard Ignition (SMP): This brand is well-documented as a direct replacement for the 1954-1966 Commander. Listings confirm it is a screw-in switch with the correct two-terminal design, making it a reliable choice for a straightforward installation.
- Rostra Powertrain: While a known brand for automotive electronics, specific fitment information for this classic Studebaker is less common in their catalogs, which often focus on more modern vehicles.
For a simple, non-computerized part like this, either reputable aftermarket brand will likely offer comparable quality and reliability. The most important factor is ensuring the part is listed as a direct fit for your vehicle's year. Standard Ignition is a confirmed fit.
Typical Replacement Costs
Replacing the brake light switch on a Studebaker Commander is an inexpensive repair, whether you do it yourself or have a shop handle it.
| Part Type | Part Cost | Shop Labor Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $10.92 - $15.52 | $50 - $100 | $61 - $116 |
| New OEM (NOS) | Not Readily Available | $50 - $100 | N/A |
Cost estimates are approximate and can vary based on your location and the specific repair shop. Labor is estimated at the shop's minimum charge, as the job takes less than an hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it difficult to replace the brake light switch myself?
No, this is a very easy DIY job for most owners. The switch is typically located on or near the brake pedal support. The process involves disconnecting the battery, unplugging the two wires, and unscrewing the old switch. The new one installs in the reverse order. The entire job can usually be done in under 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
What is the OEM part number for the Studebaker Commander brake light switch?
According to Studebaker parts specialists, the part number for the switch used on 1942-1966 cars is 666858. You can use this number to cross-reference with aftermarket parts.
Are there any recalls for the brake light switch on my Studebaker?
No, there are no recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from the NHTSA for this part on a 1954-1966 Studebaker Commander. Such actions are uncommon for vehicles of this era.
My brake lights don't work. How do I know for sure it's the switch?
First, check the bulbs and the fuse. If those are good, you can test the switch. Disconnect the wires from the switch and carefully touch them together (this bypasses the switch). If the brake lights turn on, the switch is the problem. If they still don't light up, you may have a wiring issue that needs further diagnosis.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 666858
Type: Screw-in, Push-type activation Terminals: 2 Male Bullet Terminals Voltage: 12V
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.