How To Remove A Brake Light Bulb

A burnt-out brake light is more than just an annoyance; it's a serious safety hazard. When one of your brake lights isn't working, other drivers behind you don't have a clear indication that you're slowing down, dramatically increasing the risk of a rear-end collision. Replacing a brake light bulb is a relatively simple and inexpensive task that can significantly improve your safety and the safety of others on the road. This article will guide you through the process of diagnosing a bad bulb and replacing it yourself.

Symptoms of a Failing or Failed Brake Light Bulb

Identifying a faulty brake light bulb early can prevent potential accidents and fines. Here are the common symptoms to watch out for:

No Illumination: This is the most obvious symptom. When you press the brake pedal, one or more of your brake lights simply don't light up. Always check both brake lights and the center high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL).
Dim or Flickering Light: The bulb might be struggling to illuminate fully or might flicker intermittently. This often indicates a bulb nearing the end of its lifespan.
"Bulb Out" Warning Light: Many newer vehicles are equipped with systems that detect burnt-out bulbs and display a warning light on the dashboard. This warning usually appears as a bulb symbol with an exclamation point.
Hyper Flashing Turn Signal: In some vehicles, a burnt-out brake light bulb can cause the turn signal on the same side to flash rapidly (hyper flashing). This is because the turn signal circuit is using the brake light circuit as a ground, and the increased resistance caused by the burnt-out bulb alters the flashing rate.
Melted or Discolored Lens: While less common, a faulty bulb can sometimes generate excessive heat, leading to a melted or discolored lens cover.

Understanding the Root Cause

The most common reason for a brake light bulb to fail is simply age and wear. Brake light bulbs are incandescent, meaning they use a filament that heats up to produce light. Over time, this filament weakens and eventually breaks, causing the bulb to burn out. Other factors that can contribute to premature bulb failure include:

Vibration: Constant vibrations from driving can weaken the filament.
Moisture: Exposure to moisture can corrode the bulb's contacts and cause it to fail.
Voltage Spikes: Fluctuations in your vehicle's electrical system can shorten the lifespan of the bulb.
Incorrect Bulb Type: Using the wrong type of bulb can cause it to overheat and fail prematurely. Always refer to your owner's manual or a bulb replacement guide to ensure you're using the correct bulb.

Less frequently, the problem may not be the bulb itself but a faulty brake light switch, wiring issue, or a blown fuse. The brake light switch is located near the brake pedal and activates the brake lights when the pedal is pressed. A faulty switch will prevent the brake lights from working, even with good bulbs. Damaged or corroded wiring can also interrupt the flow of electricity to the bulbs. Finally, a blown fuse protecting the brake light circuit will prevent the lights from working.

Consequences of Ignoring a Burnt-Out Brake Light

Driving with a burnt-out brake light is extremely dangerous and illegal. The potential consequences are significant:

Increased Risk of Accidents: As mentioned earlier, a missing brake light drastically reduces visibility to other drivers, making rear-end collisions far more likely.
Legal Penalties: Law enforcement officers can issue tickets for driving with defective equipment, including burnt-out brake lights. These tickets can result in fines and points on your driving record.
Failed Vehicle Inspection: During a vehicle inspection, a burnt-out brake light will cause your vehicle to fail, requiring you to fix the issue before you can legally operate the vehicle.
Liability in an Accident: If you are involved in an accident and one of your brake lights is not working, you could be held liable for damages, even if the accident wasn't entirely your fault.

Recommended Fixes: Replacing the Brake Light Bulb

Replacing a brake light bulb is a straightforward process that most vehicle owners can handle themselves. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Gather Your Supplies: You'll need a replacement brake light bulb (check your owner's manual or a bulb replacement guide for the correct type), a screwdriver (usually a Phillips head), and gloves (optional, but recommended to keep your hands clean).
Locate the Brake Light Assembly: This is usually located in the rear of the vehicle, often within the taillight housing. Refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on accessing the bulb.
Access the Bulb Socket: Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove screws or clips to access the bulb socket. Some vehicles have a removable panel inside the trunk or cargo area that provides access to the taillight assembly.
Remove the Old Bulb: Once you have access to the bulb socket, gently twist and pull the old bulb out. Most bulbs have a bayonet-style base that requires a quarter-turn to release.
Install the New Bulb: Insert the new bulb into the socket and twist it until it locks into place. Be careful not to touch the glass part of the bulb with your bare hands, as oils from your skin can shorten the bulb's lifespan. If you do touch it, clean it with rubbing alcohol.
Test the Brake Lights: Have someone press the brake pedal while you observe the brake lights to ensure the new bulb is working correctly. Check all brake lights, including the CHMSL.
Reassemble the Taillight Assembly: Once you've confirmed that the new bulb is working, reassemble the taillight assembly in reverse order of how you took it apart.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the new bulb doesn't work, consider these troubleshooting steps:

Double-Check the Bulb Type: Ensure you're using the correct bulb for your vehicle.
Inspect the Bulb Socket: Check for corrosion or damage in the bulb socket. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush or electrical contact cleaner.
Check the Fuse: Locate the fuse for the brake lights in your vehicle's fuse box (refer to your owner's manual for the fuse location) and check if it's blown. Replace the fuse with one of the same amperage rating.
Test the Brake Light Switch: If you suspect a faulty brake light switch, you can test it using a multimeter. Consult a repair manual or online resources for instructions on how to test the switch.

Cost Estimates and Shop Advice

Replacing a brake light bulb yourself is a very inexpensive repair. A replacement bulb typically costs between $5 and $15, depending on the type and brand. The tools required are usually a screwdriver, which most people already have. So, the total cost for a DIY repair is minimal.

If you're not comfortable replacing the bulb yourself, you can take your vehicle to a mechanic. A mechanic will typically charge between $30 and $75 to replace a brake light bulb, including the cost of the bulb. This price can vary depending on the labor rate and the complexity of accessing the bulb.

When to Seek Professional Help: If you've replaced the bulb and checked the fuse, and the brake light still isn't working, it's time to consult a professional mechanic. This indicates a more complex issue, such as a wiring problem or a faulty brake light switch, which requires specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise to repair.

Credibility and Common Failure Points

While there isn't a specific Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that covers brake light bulb replacement in general, manufacturers often issue TSBs related to specific taillight assembly or wiring issues that can contribute to bulb failure. For example, some TSBs address water intrusion into taillight housings, which can lead to corrosion and bulb failure. Searching online forums for your specific vehicle make and model can also provide valuable insights into common brake light problems and solutions.

The lifespan of a brake light bulb can vary depending on factors like usage, driving conditions, and bulb quality. However, most incandescent brake light bulbs typically last between 1 and 3 years. Some drivers report bulb failures around the 50,000 to 75,000-mile mark, but this can vary greatly.

In conclusion, regularly checking your brake lights and promptly replacing any burnt-out bulbs is crucial for your safety and the safety of others. This simple maintenance task can prevent accidents and help you avoid legal penalties. If you encounter any difficulties or suspect a more complex issue, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance.