Evil e28 brake light voodoo (archive)

When I purchased my 1987 535is there was one obvious problem (many hidden) with the overhead checklight warning with a red light on indicating that something was wrong with the brakes.
The exact symptom was that when you started the car the yellow "check" on the instrument cluster would flash until you pushed the overhead "check" button. Normally the instrument cluster light would go off once the brakes have been applied. Once I push the overhead check button to get the instrument cluster light off, the light next to "brake" overhead remains lit. Make sense?

Here's where it gets wierd. I had access to some good replacement parts so I replaced both brake light assemblies, the brake relay, and the overhead "check" computer/warning system. The battery was reconnected and wouldn't you know it, the exact same symptoms ocurred.

What else could I possibly replace or fix? Is there a sensor bad in the actual brake system, not the rear brake lights?

Happy Holidays to all! Thank you-

Dan Latta
'87 535is - this car is going to be perfect if it kills me
'89 325is - perfect

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