The problem
Certain passenger vehicles May be equipped with an improperly designed brake light switch. A silicon oxide build-up occurs on the contacts inside the brake light switch, which can make it inoperable.
The risk
If the switch is inoperable, the brake lights will not illuminate and can increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the brake light switch. The recall began during December 2004. Owners should contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-558 (04V558000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SSC 40L/SSC 4LH |
| Manufacturer | Toyota Motor Corporation |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch |
| Report date | November 22, 2004 |
| Owners notified | December 20, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 183,090 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-558 repair free?
Yes. Lexus dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the brake light switch. The recall began during December 2004. Owners should contact Toyota at 1-800-331-4331.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 183,090 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.