I have the factory service manual. The circuit for the light shows there are four different things that can turn the light on. If the control line is shorted then the light should be on.

1. ABS control module
2. Brake fluid level switch
3. Parking brake switch
4. Ignition switch in position 3 (start)

I have disconnected 1, 2 and 3 with their connectors and still have the light.

Has anyone seen an ignition system that was faulty with this? The only other option seems to be the instrument panel. I'm assuming this has some kind of resistor pull-up as a default in the panel. Does anyone know if that is case or not? That could be faulty I suppose.

Thanks for any help or suggestions on how to troubleshoot further. I can't get my emissions done until I get the light working properly. It's a quote "safety" issue... which is total BS.

 

Could you tell us what year, model vehicle you are working on?
What about the wiring?

 

Sorry, thought I had added that info. It's a 99 Contour, 5-speed manual, Duratek 6 cyl. Haven't found any issues with the wiring itself. No corroded terminals.