How Much Is a Brake Light Replacement?

Expect to pay $10–$40 if you replace a simple brake light bulb yourself, or about $50–$100 at an independent shop. If your vehicle uses a sealed LED tail light assembly, parts and labor typically run $150–$800+ (often $250–$1,200 at a dealership). The center third brake light is usually $50–$300, and a faulty brake-light switch runs about $75–$250 installed. Prices vary by vehicle, part type (bulb vs. LED assembly), labor rates, and access complexity.

What You’re Actually Replacing

“Brake light replacement” can mean swapping a cheap incandescent bulb or replacing an entire LED tail lamp assembly. Many newer vehicles use LED arrays sealed into the tail light; when an LED module fails, the whole assembly often must be replaced. Sometimes the issue isn’t the lamp at all but a brake-light switch at the pedal, a blown fuse, a corroded socket, or wiring damage. Identifying the exact failed part determines the price.

Typical Price Ranges in 2025

Bulb-only (Incandescent/Halogen)

Common dual-filament bulbs (e.g., 1157, 7443) cost about $3–$12 each ($5–$15 for premium/long-life). Professional installation usually adds 0.2–0.5 hours of labor, landing most shop totals at $50–$100 including parts, taxes, and shop fees. DIY with a basic screwdriver often keeps it under $20–$40. Many national auto parts retailers offer courtesy bulb installation on easily accessible housings.

LED Tail Light Assemblies

For vehicles with integrated LED tail lamps, replacement typically costs $150–$800+ parts and labor at independent shops, and $250–$1,200+ at dealers, depending on brand and trim. Luxury models and vehicles requiring coding/programming can exceed $1,000. Labor usually runs 0.5–1.5 hours, with independent shop rates commonly $90–$175/hr and dealership rates $150–$250/hr.

Center High-Mount Stop Lamp (Third Brake Light)

CHMSL replacements range from $30–$150 for the part and usually 0.3–0.8 hours labor. Vehicles with integrated spoilers or headliners can push totals to $150–$300+ due to access time.

Brake Light Switch

The switch at the brake pedal costs $15–$60 for the part. Installed totals are typically $75–$250 depending on labor rates and access. A failing switch can cause all brake lights to be inoperative or stuck on.

Electrical Diagnosis and Wiring Faults

If a bulb or assembly swap doesn’t fix it, expect $50–$150 for diagnostics, plus any repair time and parts. Corroded sockets, broken wires at trunk hinges, or failed connectors can add $20–$200+.

Real-World Examples

Below are representative, ballpark installed prices in the U.S. for common scenarios. Actual costs vary by location, shop, and vehicle trim.

• Economy sedan with standard bulb (e.g., older Honda Civic/Toyota Corolla): $35–$90 installed.
• Mainstream SUV with LED tail lamp (e.g., newer Toyota RAV4/Ford Escape): $250–$700 independent; $400–$900 dealer.
• Pickup with LED tail lamp (e.g., late-model Ford F-150/Ram): $300–$800 independent; $500–$1,000 dealer.
• Luxury brand with coded LED assembly (e.g., BMW/Audi/Mercedes): $600–$1,400+ installed, coding sometimes extra ($50–$150).
• Third brake light on hatchback/SUV: $100–$250 installed; more if headliner/spoiler removal is required.
• Brake-light switch on most vehicles: $90–$200 installed.

These snapshots illustrate how part type and vehicle complexity can swing the final bill from under $100 to over $1,000.

Factors That Change the Price

Several variables drive the final cost beyond the basic part price.

• Vehicle make/model and year: Luxury and newer vehicles often use pricier LED assemblies.
• Bulb vs. sealed LED: Bulbs are cheap; LED assemblies can be several hundred dollars.
• Access time: Interior trim or bumper removal increases labor hours.
• Dealer vs. independent shop: Dealers usually charge higher labor rates.
• Geography: Urban and coastal areas often have higher hourly rates.
• OEM vs. aftermarket parts: Aftermarket can save money; OEM may fit and last better.
• Programming/coding: Some LED modules require software coding after install.
• Related repairs: Sockets, gaskets, or wiring fixes add to the job.
• Taxes and shop fees: Expect 5–12% in shop supplies and local taxes/fees.

Understanding these levers helps explain quotes and identify where you can legitimately save.

DIY vs. Professional Service

For many vehicles with exposed bulb sockets, DIY is quick and inexpensive. Modern LED assemblies or hard-to-reach housings often justify professional help.

• DIY advantages: Lowest cost; immediate fix; simple tools; many tutorials available.
• DIY cautions: Risk of breaking trim, improper sealing (water leaks), or touching bulb glass (shortens bulb life).
• Professional advantages: Correct parts, torque, sealing, and any needed coding; warranty on labor/parts.
• Mobile mechanic/parts store help: Mobile techs may add a $20–$40 service call; parts stores may install bulbs free if accessible.

If you’re not sure whether your car uses a bulb or LED assembly, check the owner’s manual, look up the part number, or call a shop with your VIN.

Safety and Legal Notes

Driving without working brake lights is unsafe and can lead to traffic stops or citations. Replace failed brake lights promptly, and consider carrying a spare bulb if your vehicle uses incandescent lamps.

How to Save Money

A few smart steps can reduce the cost without compromising safety or quality.

• Confirm the failure: Check bulbs, fuses, and the brake-light switch before ordering parts.
• Bring your VIN: Ensures you get the exact part number (especially for LED assemblies).
• Ask about courtesy installs: Some parts stores install bulbs for free when access is simple.
• Compare OEM and quality aftermarket: Aftermarket assemblies can be 20–40% less.
• Check for warranty/recalls/TSBs: LED failures may be covered under basic or extended warranties.
• Prevent water intrusion: Replace cracked lenses and gaskets to avoid repeat failures.
• Consider used OEM assemblies: Salvage yards can cut LED assembly costs significantly; inspect for cracks and moisture.

Price comparisons and verifying coverage can turn a pricey repair into a manageable one.

Turnaround Time

Bulb swaps typically take 10–20 minutes. LED assembly or CHMSL replacements run 30–90 minutes, longer if interior trim or bumpers must be removed. Parts availability is the main variable; dealers often stock common assemblies, while aftermarket units may take a day or two to arrive.

Bottom Line

Most brake light fixes are inexpensive if your car uses a conventional bulb. Costs rise substantially for sealed LED assemblies and vehicles requiring coding. Get an exact estimate by identifying the failed component and factoring in labor rates where you live.

Summary

Budget $10–$40 DIY or $50–$100 at a shop for a bulb replacement; $150–$800+ for an LED tail light assembly ($250–$1,200 at a dealer); $50–$300 for the third brake light; and $75–$250 installed for a brake-light switch. Confirm the part type, compare shop rates and parts options, and address the issue promptly for safety and compliance.

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).

How much does it cost to have a brake light changed?

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. 

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 should it cost to replace a brake light?

Replacing a brake light can cost anywhere from $5 to $30 for a single bulb if you do it yourself, up to $100 to $800 or more if you need to replace a whole tail light assembly at a shop. The total cost depends on whether you’re replacing a simple bulb or an entire tail light assembly, the type of bulb (LED or standard), your vehicle’s make and model, and whether you pay for professional labor or tackle the job yourself. 
Factors influencing cost:

• Bulb vs. Assembly: A single bulb is inexpensive and easy to replace, while a cracked or damaged tail light assembly costs much more, sometimes hundreds of dollars. 
• Vehicle Type: Some vehicles use simple bulbs, while others have integrated LED lights or complex modules that are more expensive to replace. 
• DIY vs. Professional:
  • DIY (Do It Yourself): You can save money by buying a bulb for $5-$30 and replacing it yourself. 
  • Professional: Labor costs and parts markups can significantly increase the price. 
• Location: Repair costs vary by geographic location, with some areas having higher average repair costs than others. 
• Parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are often more expensive than aftermarket options. 

What you might pay:

• DIY Bulb Replacement: Just the cost of the bulb, which is $5 to $30. 
• Professional Bulb Replacement: A mechanic might charge $10 to $20 for labor on top of the bulb cost. 
• Full Tail Light Assembly Replacement: Can range from $100 to $300 or more for an aftermarket assembly, and closer to $500 or more for an OEM assembly. 

Recommendations:

• Check your owner’s manual: to identify the correct bulb or assembly for your vehicle. 
• Watch a YouTube video: for your specific car make and model to see how to replace it. 
• Consider DIYing: if it’s just a bulb replacement, as it’s a straightforward task. 
• Get quotes from multiple repair shops: if you’re unsure about the diagnosis or cost, especially for more complex issues like a damaged assembly or a broken circuit.