1. Low Brake Fluid: Check the brake fluid reservoir to ensure it's filled to the appropriate level. Low brake fluid can cause the brake light to illuminate.
2. Faulty Brake Switch: The brake switch, which is typically located near the brake pedal, can malfunction and trigger the brake lights to come on. A faulty brake switch may need to be replaced.
3. ABS System Issue: If your 1994 Ford Tempo has an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a problem with the ABS system, such as a sensor malfunction, could also cause the brake light to come on.
4. Wiring Issue: There may be a problem with the electrical wiring related to the brake light circuit, causing the light to stay illuminated even when the parking break is not engaged.
5. Combination Meter Failure: In rare cases, the combination meter, which includes various indicators on the dashboard, may malfunction and cause the brake light to stay on even when it should not.
To accurately diagnose the cause of the brake light illuminating, it is recommend to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic who can identify and address the specific issue.