* Brake Light Switch: This is the most frequent cause. The switch, located near the brake pedal, tells the car when the brakes are applied. If it's faulty (stuck "on"), the lights will remain illuminated. This is a relatively inexpensive and easy part to replace.
* Brake Pedal Position Sensor: Similar to the brake light switch, but more sophisticated in some vehicles. A malfunction in this sensor can also cause the lights to stay on.
* Wiring Issue: A short circuit or damaged wire in the brake light circuit can cause the lights to stay on. This might be anywhere from the switch to the lights themselves. This often requires tracing the wiring.
* Faulty Brake Lights: Though less common than other issues, a short within one or both brake light assemblies can send power back into the system, keeping the lights on.
* Body Control Module (BCM): The BCM is the "brain" controlling various electrical functions. A faulty BCM can cause this problem, but this is a less likely scenario and usually presents with other electrical issues.
* Fuse: A blown fuse might seem counter-intuitive, but sometimes a fuse can short, seemingly "staying on" even when burnt out causing the issue.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Visual Inspection: Start by visually inspecting the brake light bulbs themselves. Are they burnt out? (Note: a burnt-out bulb *shouldn't* keep the lights on, but a short within the socket could). Check the wiring for any obvious damage or corrosion near the bulbs, switch, and the brake pedal.
2. Check the Brake Light Switch: This is usually easily accessible under the dash. You can try gently pushing/pulling on the switch to see if it's stuck.
3. Test the Switch (if accessible): You might be able to test the switch with a multimeter to see if it's sending a constant signal. Consult a repair manual or online resources for your specific vehicle model for instructions on how to do this safely.
4. Check the Fuses: Consult your owner's manual to locate and check the fuses related to the brake lights.
When to Seek Professional Help:
If you're not comfortable performing these checks yourself, or if you've checked these items and the problem persists, take your Grand Caravan to a qualified mechanic. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose and repair more complex electrical issues. Diagnosing a problem with the BCM is best left to a professional.
