What's this car part called?
 

I think the relay / sensor thing that sits next to the brake pedal and detects if you're pressing the brake has died on me. My brake lights don't brighten when I push in the brake, and I'm unable to get the shifter (automatic) out of park without pressing the override switch that's buried in my center console. So yeah, I've got the center console cover off just so I can actually drive it.

I was taking a quick look at the online catalog of Advance Auto Parts but didn't seem to find it listed. I'm not sure if I was just looking in the wrong categories or if it's just got a goofy name.

I did a google search for 'brake pedal sensor' and that came up with a lot of results for chevy and gmc cars. Might try that. What type of car is this for?

Brake light switch - you can check it by shorting across the terminals - the lights should operate.

It's a 2000 Ford Escort ZX2.

Thanks, that looks like that may be it.

Brake Light Switch sounds right. Most of them are adjustable, its possible you may just need to screw it clockwise so that its closer to the pedal. If its not, it should be a cheap part to replace. If your car is automatic, then this switch also causes the converter to unlock when the brakes are pressed (engine RPM should increase when it unlocks)