When your brake light bulb dies, it's a serious issue that shouldn't be ignored. It's wise to have someone periodically check that your brake lights are functioning properly. An easy way to check them yourself is to place a heavy object on the brake pedal to activate the lights.
If the brake light is slow to turn on, dimmer than expected, or triggers the brake warning light, the bulb also likely needs replacing.
Luckily, brake light bulb replacement is a straightforward task you can tackle. Here we will walk you through the steps to fix it.
Prerequisites
Before starting, make sure you have the following tools:
Also, it’s important to have an understanding of your vehicle's layout (refer to your vehicle's manual).
How to Change A Brake Light Bulb
Step 1. Locate the brake light assembly
Depending on the make and model of your car, you may be able to access the brake light assembly from the outside or inside of your car.
Step 2. Open the brake light assembly cover
Remove the brake light cover to expose the light bulbs. The method of removal can also differ between car models. Some may simply pop off, or there may be screws or clips holding it in place.
After removing the cover, you should be able to see inside the brake light assembly.
Step 3. Identify the burnt-out bulb
There may be multiple light bulbs within this assembly. Identify the brake light bulb that needs to be replaced.
The burnt-out bulb may appear darker than the others. You can compare it to the other bulbs in the assembly.
Step 4. Remove the burnt-out bulb
To remove the brake light bulb, twist it a quarter turn and pull it out of the socket. The turning direction and method may vary depending on the car model.
Some car may have a small clip holding the bulb in place. Pull down the clip and pull out the burnt-out bulb.
Step 5. Insert the new bulb
Be careful not to touch the bulb with your bare fingers. Instead, use gloves or a clean paper towel to handle the bulb. That’s because the substances like oils or salts can protentially decrease the bulb’s performance.
Take your new bulb and insert it into the slot where the old bulb was. Push the new bulb into the socket and twist it to the right (or the locking direction specified by your car's manual) to secure it. It should snap into place.
Step 6. Test the new bulb
Have someone step on the brakes while you observe the light. If it lights up, you've successfully replaced your brake light bulb.
Notes
- Remember, your car might be different, and the brake light assembly could be in a different location or require a different method to access it.
- Always consult your vehicle's manual and use common sense when doing maintenance tasks like this one.
- If you're unsure or uncomfortable doing this task, don't hesitate to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I replace my own brake light?
A: Absolutely. Changing your brake light is a simple task that does not necessarily require you to visit your mechanic. You can easily do it yourself.
Q: How long does it take to change a brake light bulb?
A: It usually takes between ten and fifteen minutes to replace a brake light bulb. However, this time frame can vary depending on how familiar you are with the process.
Q: How much does it cost to replace a brake light?
A: On average, replacing your brake light bulb will cost between $100 and $200. Note that the cost can vary depending on the model of your vehicle and the type of garage you select.
Q: How often do brake lights need to be replaced?
A: Brake light bulbs usually have a lifespan of approximately 4 years, or roughly 40,000 miles of driving. This timeframe can change based on how often and how far you drive. For frequent long-distance travelers, you may find your brake lights need replacing sooner than the expected 4 years.
Q: Is it hard to change the brake light bulb?
A: No. The process of replacing the brake light bulbs in your vehicle is very simple. You'll find the rear light bulbs are typically housed in a unit that's easily accessible from within the trunk.
Q: Should you always replace both brake lights?
A: Yes, it's a good idea to replace both brake lights at the same time. They are likely to have deteriorated equally since they have been in use for the same amount of time. If one brake light is burned up, the other is probably not far behind.
Bottom Line
While the process varies by vehicle make and model, replacing brake light bulbs is usually straightforward. Consulting your owner's manual will provide the specifics for your car. In most cases, you'll need to access the bulb housing from behind the light assembly, remove the old bulb, and insert an identical replacement. Avoid touching the glass portion of new bulbs to prevent premature failure.
If you're not confident completing this repair yourself, enlist a professional automotive technician. Proper brake light operation is vital for safe driving.
