How Much Does a Brake Light Cost in 2025?

A brake light can cost anywhere from about $5 for a basic bulb to well over $1,000 for a full LED tail-lamp assembly on premium vehicles. For most cars, replacing a standard bulb runs roughly $15–$50 DIY or $40–$120 at a shop, while a full tail-light assembly typically ranges $150–$600 installed aftermarket and $400–$1,500+ with OEM parts at a dealership. Prices vary by vehicle, part type (bulb vs. assembly), and labor complexity.

What We Mean by “Brake Light”

“Brake light” can refer to the replaceable bulb inside a tail-lamp housing, the entire tail-lamp assembly that includes LEDs and lenses, or the third/high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL). Costs differ significantly depending on which component has failed and how your vehicle is designed.

Current Price Ranges by Part Type

Below are typical 2025 U.S. retail ranges for common brake light parts. These reflect mainstream vehicles; luxury or rare models can be higher.

• Incandescent brake light bulb (e.g., 1157/7443): $2–$10 each
• LED replacement bulb (CANbus-compatible/premium): $10–$50 per pair
• Third brake light (bulb or LED module): $20–$150; integrated LED bars $50–$300
• Complete tail-lamp assembly (aftermarket): $80–$400 per side
• Complete tail-lamp assembly (OEM/dealer): $200–$1,500+ per side; some luxury models $2,000+
• Related electrical items (fuses, sockets, resistors, pigtails): $5–$40 each

These are parts-only estimates; installed prices depend on labor time, access, and any diagnostic work needed.

Total Installed Costs in Common Scenarios

Because labor rates and complexity vary, the totals below combine typical 2025 labor ($100–$175/hour in many U.S. markets) with parts to illustrate real-world out-the-door costs.

1. Standard bulb replacement at an independent shop: $40–$120 total (parts + 0.1–0.3 hr labor)
2. LED bulb upgrade/replacement (pair): $60–$160 total, depending on bulb quality and CANbus needs
3. Third brake light module: $80–$250 total; integrated LED bar or spoiler-mounted: $150–$400
4. Aftermarket tail-lamp assembly: $150–$600 total (0.5–1.0 hr labor typical)
5. OEM tail-lamp assembly at dealer: $400–$1,500+ total; premium brands can exceed $2,000
6. Electrical fault (e.g., brake light switch): $120–$300 total ($15–$60 part + 0.5–1.5 hr labor)

Expect higher totals if bumper or interior trim must be removed, coding is required, or diagnostic time is needed to trace wiring or control-module faults.

What Drives the Price

Several factors explain why a simple bulb can be cheap while a modern lamp assembly is not.

• Part type and design: Simple incandescent bulbs are inexpensive; sealed LED assemblies cost far more.
• Vehicle make/model: Luxury, performance, and late-model vehicles often use complex, brand-specific lighting.
• Access and labor time: Some lamps are one-screw jobs; others require bumper or trim removal.
• Electronics and coding: CANbus systems may need compatible bulbs, resistors, or module coding.
• Diagnostics: Intermittent faults or moisture intrusion can add 0.5–1.0+ hr of test time.
• Parts sourcing: OEM parts carry higher prices; aftermarket or used units can reduce costs.

Understanding these variables helps set expectations and identify savings opportunities without compromising safety.

DIY vs. Professional Service

Many brake light fixes are DIY-friendly, but some situations merit professional help. Consider the following before you decide.

• DIY-friendly: Bulb swaps with easy access via trunk or hatch, clear owner’s manual guidance.
• Tools and supplies: Correct bulb code (e.g., 1157/7443), gloves, screwdriver, dielectric grease.
• Take care: Do not touch glass on halogen bulbs; seat bulbs fully; confirm weather seals are intact.
• When to see a pro: Moisture in the housing, melted sockets, warning messages, hyperflash, or coding needs.
• Post-repair check: Verify both left/right lamps and the third brake light illuminate; test with reflections or a helper.

If you’re unsure, a quick inspection at a reputable shop can prevent repeated bulb failures or electrical damage.

Safety and Legal Notes

Driving with a failed brake light is both unsafe and often illegal.

• Safety: Reduced rear visibility increases crash risk, especially at night or in poor weather.
• Legal: Many jurisdictions issue citations or “fix-it” tickets for inoperative lights.
• Inspection: Some states require functional brake lights to pass annual or emissions inspections.

Prompt repairs protect you, your passengers, and your wallet.

How to Avoid Overpaying

There are practical ways to control costs without sacrificing quality.

• Check the owner’s manual for the exact bulb number and replacement steps.
• Bring the old bulb to the parts counter to match base type and brightness.
• Compare quotes: Independent shops vs. dealers; ask for aftermarket vs. OEM pricing.
• Look for TSBs or recalls: Some tail-lamp moisture or LED failures are covered by the manufacturer.
• Consider used or refurbished assemblies for older vehicles when OEM new is costly.
• Factor warranty: Dealer/OEM parts may carry longer coverage; ask shops about part/labor warranties.

A few calls and part checks can shave significant dollars off the final bill while ensuring a reliable fix.

Summary

For most cars, a brake light fix is inexpensive: $15–$50 DIY or $40–$120 at a shop for a standard bulb. Costs rise with LED modules and full lamp assemblies, commonly $150–$600 installed aftermarket and $400–$1,500+ with OEM parts—higher on premium models. Labor, access, diagnostics, and coding can add to the total. Address failures promptly for safety and to avoid tickets, and compare parts and labor options to keep prices in check.

Can I drive if one brake light is out?

By law, you need to have two working brake lights. However, because they’re positioned on the back of your car, it’s not unusual to go a few days without noticing that one of your bulbs has gone. As soon as you’re aware that one of your brake lights is faulty, make sure you fit a new bulb straight away.

Will AutoZone replace my brake light?

No, AutoZone typically does not perform brake light replacements due to company policy, but their staff can provide advice, help you find the correct replacement bulb, and sometimes offer a quick demonstration of how to do it yourself. You will need to purchase the new bulb from AutoZone and perform the installation yourself, which is often a simple process requiring basic tools like a screwdriver. 
How AutoZone Can Help

• Product Sales: They sell a wide variety of replacement bulbs, including mini bulbs and LED options for your specific vehicle. 
• Guidance and Tips: Employees can offer advice, show you where to find the bulb in your vehicle, and demonstrate the basic steps for removal and installation. 
• Vehicle-Specific Information: AutoZone’s website and staff can help you identify the correct bulb model for your make and model. 

What You Need to Do

1. Purchase the Bulb: Visit your local AutoZone to buy the correct replacement brake light bulb for your car. 
2. Consult Your Car’s Manual: Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to access the bulb assembly. 
3. Perform the Installation: Open the trunk or rear hatch, locate the light assembly, remove the old bulb by twisting the holder, insert the new bulb, and reassemble the assembly. 
4. Test the Light: Before fully reassembling, test the new brake light to ensure it’s working correctly. 

If the replacement is complex or the bulb is difficult to reach, you may need to consider visiting a professional mechanic.

Is it expensive to replace a brake light?

A brake light bulb replacement can cost as little as $5 to $30 for the part, but if the entire assembly or a switch needs replacing, the cost could be $100 to $1,500 or more, depending on the part’s price, whether it’s an OEM or aftermarket part, and the labor rate at a repair shop or dealership. You can avoid labor costs by doing the replacement yourself by checking your car’s manual and following online guides. 
Factors influencing the cost

• Bulb vs. Assembly: Opens in new tabA burnt-out brake light is often just a blown bulb, which is cheap to replace. However, a cracked taillight housing or a problem with the entire taillight assembly will be more expensive. 
• OEM vs. Aftermarket: Opens in new tabOriginal Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are generally more expensive than aftermarket parts, but they typically offer better quality and come with a warranty. 
• DIY vs. Professional Repair: Opens in new tabYou can save money on labor costs by replacing the bulb or even the assembly yourself. 
• Labor Rates: Opens in new tabShop labor rates vary significantly by location, with independent shops often charging less per hour than dealerships. 
• Vehicle Make and Model: Opens in new tabThe cost of the part and the labor required can differ based on your specific car. 

How to save on costs

• DIY: Replacing a brake light bulb is a simple maintenance task that most people can do themselves, according to AutoZone.com. 
• Consult Your Manual: Your car’s owner’s manual will have instructions on how to locate and replace the bulb, and where to find the fuse if it’s blown. 
• Use Online Resources: You can find DIY videos on YouTube and helpful articles on auto parts websites and forums to guide you through the process. 

Is a brake light expensive to fix?

Cost to replace a tail light is on average £130, but can range from £120 to over £180.