Why are my brake lights on?

Brake lights are required on all motor vehicles because they warn other cars that you are braking. Unlike other car lights, brake lights don't need to be activated. A car's brake light mechanism includes the pedals, the stop, the brake light switch, and its connections. When you apply the brakes, the switch turns on the light and vice versa.

How do brake lights work?

A car's brake lights are located at the rear of the vehicle. They are red and are used to warn drivers behind the car that it is braking. They are a safety device that prevents the vehicle from slowing down or stopping.

Brake lights are automatic. When the brake pedal is depressed or an emergency braking system is activated, a contactor sends an electrical signal to a control unit that activates the brake lights.

Why do my brake lights stay on?

Damaged brake light contactor or sensor

The most common reason for brake lights staying on is a faulty brake light switch. A switch or sensor must correctly detect whether you've depressed the pedal and send the signal to light the bulb accordingly. Once defective, the lights may stay on.

Faulty or stuck brake pedal

Your vehicle's brake pedals have a spring mechanism that helps them return to their original position after you remove your foot from them. If the brake pedal spring is broken or has loosened over time, it may not work as it used to, i.e. the switch would not close. As a result, even if you manage to release the brake, the brake light switch will remain on and the brake lights will continue to illuminate.

Broken stopper

A stopper is a plastic/rubber piece that fits into your car's brake pedal. It pushes the brake light switch into the off position when you're not braking. These stoppers can wear out over time, causing the switch to stay in the on position and the lights to come on. Replacing the stopper may correct the problem.

Damaged Electrical System

Even if parts such as brake pedals and brake light switches are working properly, damaged electrical components such as wiring and connections may be a reason they remain on.

Is it acceptable to drive a car with the brake lights on?

Although it sounds like a simple problem, brake lights that stay on should not be ignored, as drivers of cars behind you can't tell if you're braking or not, which can lead to collisions.

How do I change a brake light bulb?

Changing a brake light bulb is a simple operation that you can do yourself to save money on your car maintenance.

Step 1: Identify the faulty brake light

First, turn on your brake lights and check to see which bulb is defective. Don't hesitate to ask someone close to you to get in the car and hit the brakes so you can see the bad bulb.

Step 2: Disconnect the battery

Next, disconnect one of the battery terminals to avoid the risk of electrocution while you're replacing the dead brake light bulb.

Step 3: Remove the dead brake light bulb

Once your battery is disconnected and you're safe, you can finally access the headlight with the dead brake light bulb. Disconnect the wires connected to the bulb and unscrew it.

Step 4: Install the new brake light bulb

Replace the broken brake light bulb with a new one. Make sure it's the same model before installing it. Then reconnect all the wires and the battery.

Step 5: Test Brake Light Operation

Once you've replaced the brake light bulb, take a moment to check that all your lights are working properly.

How much does it cost to fix a broken brake light?

Fixing the problem won't cost you much. However, it depends on the make and model of your vehicle. Expect to pay between $30 and $300 for a repair, including labor. However, the cost of replacing components such as switches is low enough that the total repair cost can be less than $100.