Hi I have a 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid. I have the "push to start" model. When I tried to start my car, I noticed a message saying "when starting, press the brake pedal". I was pushing the brake pedal while starting my car, and it continued to display same message with no luck in starting the car. After some research, I was able to override the start button by holding the push button in for 20 seconds or so. After getting the car to start, I was unable to shift out of park. At that point, I pushed the manual shift release button located on the gear shift panel. I continued to research the issue after eliminating the possibility it was the battery in my key fobs. I eventually came across an article (or 3) that basically implied it was my brake light switch. All signs indicated that was the culprit. That evening, I backed my car in the driveway to use the garage door as a way to see if my brake lights were coming on....They were not. I then got underneath the dash, looking for the switch. At the time i couldn't locate it, so I just felt around the wires trying to make sure nothing was loose. In doing so, I was able to temporarily resolve the problem. The next few times I tried this, I was able to start the car. Eventually, that wouldn't work either. Once I was able to locate and remove brakelight switch, I tested it using a multimeter and learned that the brakelight switch was good. I tested the wiring harnesss, where the brakelight switch connects, by plugging a fuse into the ports. A video I watched said that by doing this, the brakelights should illuminate and stay illuminated until removing the fuse. That was how I learned that there was no connection going though to the brakelight switch from that harness. I've checked all fuses, they checked out good. I cannot find anything on other possible causes the brakelight switch isn't getting power. Is there a relay in the engine compartment fuse panel that might be failing? If so, which relay would that be (how is it labeled), and how would I test/check it? How can I find out for sure where the shortage or loss of connection is? Any ideas on how to change the wiring harness. My financial status is at an all time low. Im a single mom of 2 with one on the way- so I don't necessarily have the money to take it to a shop. Im not an auto mechanic. But my willingness to be independent and not ask anyone for help has motivated me to learn how to fix and repair minor car problems, such as replacing a radiator, replacing a thermostat, changing the oil, and a couple of other odd and end things.
That being said, if it isn't something to technical and doesn't involve rewiring or some other major electrical task; I'm confident that I can follow some simple instructions to resolve the issue. If it does require more technical or professional based experience, I woud still like some insight on what bigger issues I'm looking at. Any suggestions, recommendations, or helpful information is much appreciated.

 

The 100% gas version has the switch inline between the Stop fuse and brake lights (no relays used). The hybrid wiring may be different from the 100% gas version due to regeneration, but it may just tap off the brake light circuit after the brake switch.

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