radio works when it wants too !

[Sleuth]

Hi Guys, Got this 97 540i with a wierd problem I have never seen before. Sometimes the radio will not power up when you start the car..and the brake lights will stay on. wierd huh? anyone seen this before? I replaced the brake light switch and have checked connections at radio faceplate. Thanks in advance for anyone who may have some input.
Dave

[1993IS]

Sorry to bring up such an old thread but this is the exact same problem that I am having with my 2000 528I. I disconnected the battery while doing some unrelated work in the engine compartment and upon reconnecting it, I now have this problem. The radio will not come on and the brake lights stay on regardless of pedal position. I am stumped, please help!!!!!!

Thanks, Aaron

[Gregs///M]

at the brake pedal, you wanna find the microswitch. These wires will send out a 12 volts signal when the brake is pressed down. Could be a sticking switch.

[1993IS]

Thanks for the reply, just went out to the garage and looked at the switch, it appears to be functioning properly. I am confused as to why the radio stopped working at the same time as the brake lights decided to work overtime. any other ideas???

Aaron