Replacing rear brake pads on a 05 spyder eclipse, I cannot get the pads free. What am I missing

Press brake pedal and see if brake lights are on. The brake light switch is part of the parking release unit.

Check the lightbulb and socket there a sort

Did you check the socket and wires immediately nearby? I assume it is isolated to just one bulb. If not, check brake light switch behind pedal and fuse. Also, switch bulbs around just in case.

This can be from warped rotors in the brakes. If you had to slam the brakes recently you may have warped them! May also be uneven brake pads. Check both and if there is an issue with them replace right away to avoid any safety issues!

You must remove the intake manifold to gain access to the rear plugs. Here is a picture of an 03 spyder that I did a tune-up on!!

Brake Rotor Removal & Installation Front Front brake caliper & rotor removal/installation

Rear Rear brake caliper & rotor removal/installation

remove air intake chamber firts

your top is leaking,check the weather strip seals to see if any are torn or missing-be careful because mitsubishi does not carry all parts for spyder tops anymore-good luck

Your brake switch is on, likely due to a rotten contact pad

If you look under the dash by the brake pedal, you will see the brake switch mounted against the pedal with a little plunger sticking out.
The pedal contacts this plunger with a little rubber cushion that gets brittle with age and falls apart.
Once this happens the plunger no longer contacts the pedal and extends at all times, leaving your brake lights on.

Verify the pad is missing. If it is not missing and you can see the pedal depress the plunger completely at rest, then you have a faulty brake switch...... it's always the rubber pad though :)

Here is a picture of roughly what to expect: