You can use your multimeter to check the switch for continuity and
dis-continuity, when the switch is depressed/released.  Or you could just
apply 12V directly to the brake wire and see if that lights them up.  If the
switch is working, then I would check the wiring to the lights.  I would
also make sure that the brake light circuit is properly grounded.  HTH

Cory
'90 Syncro Westfalia

> Heres my problem, driving home friend pulled up behind and told me I
didn't
> have any brake lights.  Started digging.  Found that no current was coming
> from up front when brake depressed.  Checked switches on brake master
> cylinder, they had current but never made any connection when brake
> depressed.  I fiqured bad switch, so I picked up a new one to test this.
> Problem is I still can't get any current flowing to the brake lights!?  I
> have a hard time thinking that I just happen to buy a new switch that is a
> lemon.  So does anybody have any ideas of why the switch wouldn't close
the
> circuit?  The brakes work fine so the switches should be getting pressure
> to turn.  Anyway just wanted to ask before going and getting another new
> switch.
>
> Thanks,
> Dave K.