How much does it cost to replace a brake light?

Expect to pay about $5–$20 to DIY a basic bulb replacement, $40–$100 at an independent shop, $80–$150 at a dealership, and $150–$900+ if your vehicle uses an integrated LED tail-lamp assembly. Costs vary with bulb type (incandescent vs. LED), vehicle design, and whether a full lamp housing or electrical repair is needed.

Typical price ranges

Brake light repairs span from a simple bulb swap to replacing a sealed LED lamp. Here’s what most drivers in the U.S. can expect for common scenarios, including parts and likely labor ranges.

• DIY standard bulb (incandescent/halogen): $5–$20 for the bulb; total $5–$20
• Independent shop bulb replacement: $40–$100 installed (0.3–0.5 hr labor typical)
• Dealership bulb replacement: $80–$150 installed (higher labor rate)
• LED “bulb” or third brake light strip/module: $20–$90 parts DIY; $80–$200 installed
• Full LED tail-lamp assembly (sealed unit): $150–$700+ parts; $200–$900+ installed
• Electrical diagnosis if the light still won’t work: $100–$180 diagnostic fee; plus $20–$300 for sockets, wiring, or connectors if needed

Most modern cars still use serviceable bulbs for the brake function, keeping costs low. Prices climb when the lamp is a sealed LED assembly or when wiring or control modules are involved.

What drives the cost

Several factors determine whether your repair is a $15 fix or a few hundred dollars. These influences are the main cost drivers.

• Part type: Replaceable bulb vs. sealed LED assembly
• Vehicle design: Easy-access trunk panels vs. bumper/trim removal
• Labor rate: Independent shop vs. dealership ($90–$180/hr typical)
• Diagnostics: Needed if the bulb is good but the circuit isn’t
• Brand/trim: Premium and European models often have pricier assemblies
• Warranty coverage: Bulbs are wear items; assemblies may be covered longer

In short, simple bulb jobs are inexpensive, while integrated LED designs and electrical faults increase both parts and labor costs.

DIY or professional?

Deciding whether to do it yourself or hire a shop depends on access, tools, and comfort removing trim. Consider the trade-offs below.

• DIY benefits: Lowest cost; 10–30 minutes; basic tools (screwdriver, gloves)
• DIY cautions: Fragile plastic clips; risk of wrong bulb or poor seal reinstallation
• Shop benefits: Quick, correct fitment; proper sealing; disposal of old parts
• Shop cautions: Higher labor; possible wait times or shop minimums

If access requires pulling interior trim or the assembly is LED and pricey, professional installation often prevents damage and ensures proper sealing against moisture.

How long it takes

Time is usually short for bulbs and longer for assemblies. These are typical time estimates used for scheduling and labor calculations.

• Standard bulb replacement: 0.3–0.5 hours (DIY often 10–20 minutes)
• Third brake light (decklid/roof spoiler): 0.3–1.0 hour
• Full tail-lamp assembly: 0.5–1.2 hours, longer if bumper removal is needed
• Electrical diagnosis/repair: 0.5–1.0+ hours depending on fault

Shops bill by book time; straightforward jobs lean toward the low end, while corroded fasteners or tricky trims add time.

When the price jumps

Some vehicles or failure modes push costs well above a simple bulb swap. Watch for these situations.

• Sealed LED tail-lamps: The entire unit must be replaced if the LED array fails
• Water intrusion or melted sockets: Requires new sockets/harness sections
• Body or collision damage: Lamp alignment and bumper removal add labor
• European/luxury models: Higher parts prices; occasional coding if retrofitting LEDs

If your car shows a bulb-out warning even after replacement, a shop may need to scan the system to pinpoint wiring or module issues.

Tips to save money

You can often keep this repair affordable with a few practical steps and buying choices.

• Check your manual or bulb chart to buy the exact bulb number
• Replace bulbs in pairs to keep brightness/color consistent
• Clean contacts and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion
• Price assemblies online with OEM and reputable aftermarket options
• Ask local parts stores—many will install simple bulbs at little or no cost

Being precise with the part number and preventing corrosion helps avoid repeat repairs and false “bulb out” warnings.

Where to get it done

Availability, cost, and convenience differ by provider. Here’s what to expect from common options.

• Auto parts retailers: Often free or low-cost install with bulb purchase (simple access only)
• Independent repair shops: $40–$100 for a bulb; competitive assembly replacement
• Dealerships: OEM parts on hand; $80–$150 for bulb; higher for assemblies
• Mobile mechanics: Convenient; pricing similar to independent shops
• Quick-lube/tire chains: May handle simple bulb swaps while you wait

For sealed LED assemblies or wiring issues, an independent shop or dealership is usually the fastest path to a reliable fix.

Related costs and considerations

Beyond the bulb or lamp, a few extras can influence the final bill and safety outcome.

• Fuses: $2–$10 if a blown fuse caused the outage
• Socket or pigtail: $10–$40 if heat damage or corrosion is present
• Lens reseal or gasket: $5–$20 to prevent moisture intrusion
• Upgraded LED retrofit bulbs: $20–$50; may require resistors to avoid warnings

Addressing sockets, seals, and fuses during the repair helps ensure the light stays reliable in wet or cold conditions.

Warranty and insurance

Coverage is limited for wear items, but some situations qualify for assistance.

• Factory warranty: Usually excludes bulbs; may cover LED assemblies within comprehensive coverage periods
• Extended warranties: Sometimes cover assemblies; check terms
• Insurance: Collision or comprehensive may apply if the lamp was damaged in an insured event

Confirm coverage before authorizing a pricey LED assembly; documentation can save you out-of-pocket costs.

Summary

For most cars, replacing a burned-out brake-light bulb costs $5–$20 DIY or $40–$100 at an independent shop. Prices rise to $80–$150 at dealerships and can reach $200–$900+ when a sealed LED tail-lamp assembly is required. Labor is typically under an hour unless wiring diagnosis or body-trim removal is needed. Verify your bulb type, consider professional help for sealed LEDs, and check for corrosion or moisture to prevent repeat failures.

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.

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.

Will AutoZone change brake lights?

No, AutoZone does not perform installations of brake lights due to company policy and liability concerns; however, staff may offer guidance, help you find the correct bulb, and even demonstrate how to install it yourself. While many AutoZone locations offer assistance with simple bulb replacements, it’s best to confirm with your local store beforehand. 
What AutoZone provides:

• Guidance: Employees can provide step-by-step instructions on how to replace a brake light. 
• Product Assistance: They can help you find the right bulb for your vehicle’s make and model. 
• Demonstration: Some associates may show you how to install the bulb. 

What to do if you need professional installation:

• Check your owner’s manual: This will have detailed instructions for your specific vehicle. 
• Consult a professional mechanic: For complex replacements or when you’re unable to perform the task yourself, a professional mechanic is your best option. 
• Use AutoZone’s resources: The AutoZone.com website offers helpful articles and guidance on the process. 

How much does a dealership charge to change a brake light?

If you take your car to a mechanic or a dealership, the total cost (including labor) usually ranges from $30 to $80. Factors influencing cost include your vehicle type, bulb technology (incandescent vs. LED), labor rates in your area, and whether additional repairs are needed (like wiring or socket replacement).