What to Do If Your Brake Lights Are Out

If your brake lights are out, pull over safely, avoid driving except to reach the nearest repair location in daylight and low traffic, use hand signals if you must move, and fix the issue immediately by checking bulbs, fuses, and the brake light switch; driving without functioning brake lights is unsafe and illegal in many places. This article explains the safety risks, quick diagnostics, repair options, legal considerations, and prevention tips.

Why It Matters—and What the Law Says

Brake lights alert drivers behind you that you’re slowing or stopping. Without them, your risk of being rear-ended rises sharply, especially at night or in poor visibility. Most jurisdictions require all brake lights to function; you can be stopped by police and cited, often with a “fix-it” ticket that must be resolved within a set timeframe. In short, treat brake light failure as an urgent safety defect, not a minor inconvenience.

Immediate Steps to Stay Safe

Before troubleshooting or driving anywhere, take basic precautions to protect yourself and others on the road. These steps prioritize visibility, legality, and minimal exposure to traffic risks.

• Pull over promptly and safely: Signal, ease off to the shoulder or a parking lot, and set the parking brake.
• Use hazard lights while stopped: Turn on your flashers when you’re stationary to increase visibility. If you must drive a short distance for repairs, only use hazard lights while moving if local law permits; many places prohibit driving with hazards on.
• Drive only if essential: If immediate repair or towing isn’t available, proceed in daylight, on low-speed, low-traffic roads, and avoid highways. Keep extra distance from vehicles ahead to minimize hard braking.
• Use hand signals if you must move: Extend your left arm downward to signal “stop.” This is legal in most areas and helps other drivers anticipate your actions.
• Ask for an escort, if possible: Have a friend follow you with their hazard lights on to enhance your rear visibility.
• Stop driving at night or in poor weather: Lack of brake lights in darkness, rain, or fog is extremely dangerous and often illegal.

These measures are temporary and should only bridge the time needed to reach a safe location or repair facility. Prioritize towing or mobile service if conditions are risky.

Quick Checks You Can Do Yourself

You can often diagnose the problem in minutes. These checks help identify whether you’re dealing with a simple bulb or fuse issue, a switch fault, or a wiring/control problem.

1. Verify which lights are out: Test all rear brake lights, including the high-mounted “third” brake light. Use a helper or back up to a reflective surface/wall, press the brake, and look for illumination.
2. Check the bulbs (if non-LED): Remove the tail-lamp assembly or access panel. Look for broken filaments, darkened glass, or corrosion in the socket. Replace with the exact bulb type listed in your owner’s manual.
3. Inspect the fuse: Find the “STOP,” “BRAKE,” or “CHMSL” fuse in the fuse box (often under the dash or in the engine bay). Replace a blown fuse with the same amperage. If it blows again, you likely have a short or wiring issue.
4. Test the brake light switch: Located at or near the brake pedal, this switch activates the lights when you press the pedal. Ensure it clicks and isn’t misaligned or damaged. A failed switch can knock out all brake lights.
5. Look for wiring and ground issues: Check for frayed wires, pinched harnesses (especially in the trunk/hatch hinge area), corroded connectors, and loose grounds.
6. Consider the trailer harness: If you tow, unplug aftermarket trailer wiring and retest; faulty trailer modules commonly cause shorts or fuse blows.
7. Scan for codes on newer cars: Vehicles with a body control module (BCM) or brake pedal position sensor may set diagnostic trouble codes. An OBD-II scanner can help pinpoint faults.

These steps isolate the most common causes. If you identify a component failure, proceed to replace it—or call a professional if the issue involves complex wiring or control modules.

Replacing a Bulb or Fuse

Many brake light fixes are straightforward and inexpensive. Follow your owner’s manual for location-specific instructions and part numbers.

1. Bulb replacement (incandescent):
   – Access the tail-lamp via the trunk/hatch panel or by removing the lamp housing.
   – Twist and remove the bulb holder; pull out the old bulb.
   – Install a new bulb of the exact type. Avoid touching the glass with bare fingers; use a tissue or gloves.
   – Check for socket corrosion and clean or replace the socket if needed.
   – Test the lights before reassembling.
2. LED assemblies:
   – Many newer vehicles use sealed LED units; individual LEDs aren’t serviceable.
   – Replace the entire lamp assembly if the brake function fails. Verify compatibility and ensure weather seals are intact.
3. Fuse replacement:
   – Locate the correct fuse by label or manual.
   – Replace with the same amperage rating only.
   – If the new fuse fails immediately, stop and seek professional diagnosis to avoid wiring damage.

Take care to reseal any access panels and lamp housings to prevent water intrusion, which can cause future failures or electrical shorts.

When to Call a Professional

Some symptoms point to deeper electrical or control-module issues that require specialized tools or expertise.

• All brake lights fail simultaneously and fuses/ bulbs are fine.
• Intermittent operation, especially over bumps or when adjusting the steering column or pedals.
• Water in the lamp housing or melted connectors/sockets.
• Vehicles with integrated LED lamps or BCM-controlled lighting requiring programming or module diagnostics.
• Repeated fuse blows suggesting a short circuit.

An experienced technician can trace wiring faults, test the brake switch circuit, and diagnose BCM or sensor issues efficiently and safely.

Documentation and Legal Considerations

Keeping records helps with compliance if you’re stopped by law enforcement and need to demonstrate prompt repair.

• Retain receipts for bulbs, fuses, or repairs and note the date/time of the fix.
• If you receive a fix-it ticket, repair promptly and follow the instructions to clear it by the deadline.
• If stopped en route to repair, calmly explain, show your destination or appointment, and demonstrate any temporary safety measures you’re using.

Good documentation can reduce fines and prove that you acted responsibly to correct a safety defect.

Prevention Tips

A few simple habits will reduce the likelihood of being surprised by a brake light outage.

• Perform a monthly lights check (brake, tail, turn, reverse), or enable your vehicle’s light test mode if available.
• Replace bulbs in pairs to maintain even brightness and longevity.
• Carry spare bulbs and fuses appropriate for your vehicle.
• Inspect the trunk/hatch wiring loom periodically for pinched or cracked insulation.
• After towing, disconnect and stow trailer wiring; periodically test the trailer module.
• Keep lamp lenses clean and free of moisture; address any cracks or seal failures promptly.

Regular checks take minutes and can prevent dangerous situations and potential citations.

Hand Signals Refresher (If You Must Drive Briefly)

If you must travel a short distance to a repair facility, hand signals can help communicate your intentions to drivers behind you.

• Stop/slow: Left arm extended out the driver’s window, hand angled downward.
• Left turn: Left arm extended straight out.
• Right turn: Left arm bent upward at the elbow.

Use these signals in addition to cautious driving and only for short, essential trips in daylight.

FAQs

Common questions arise when brake lights fail. Here are concise answers to help you decide what to do next.

• Can I drive at night without brake lights? No. It’s unsafe and typically illegal. Arrange towing or mobile repair.
• Is it legal to use hazard lights while driving to a shop? Laws vary; many places prohibit hazards while moving. Use them when stopped. Check local regulations.
• If the third brake light works but the two lower ones don’t, is that okay? No. All required brake lamps must function.
• Do brake lights share a fuse with tail lights? Sometimes, but often they’re on separate circuits labeled STOP/CHMSL.
• Will an ABS warning light cause brake lights to fail? Generally no; ABS and brake lamps are separate systems.
• How much does repair cost? Bulbs: $5–$20 each; brake light switch: $20–$100 part; LED assemblies: $150–$800+; labor varies by vehicle.

When in doubt, prioritize safety and consult a professional for a quick, accurate fix.

Summary

If your brake lights are out, stop in a safe place, avoid driving except for a short, cautious trip to repair in daylight, use hand signals if necessary, and fix the issue immediately by checking bulbs, fuses, and the brake light switch. Because non-functioning brake lights are dangerous and often illegal, document your repair and consider professional help if the problem involves wiring, moisture, or control modules. Regular light checks and basic spares can prevent future surprises.

Can I drive with my brake lights out?

No, you cannot legally or safely drive with a brake light out because it is a defective vehicle condition that can lead to a ticket or fine and is extremely dangerous, as it prevents other drivers from knowing when you are braking or slowing down. You should replace the bulb or get the light fixed as soon as possible to ensure your safety and avoid legal trouble. 
Legality

• Illegal: Driving with a non-functioning brake light is a violation of traffic laws in most places, including California, where all vehicle lighting equipment must be in good working order. 
• “Fix-it” ticket: While you might receive a “fix-it” ticket, which can be dismissed after you prove the light is repaired, you could also face a fine or points on your license. 

Safety Risks 

• Impaired Communication: Opens in new tabBrake lights are crucial for communicating with drivers behind you, letting them know when you’re slowing down or stopping.
• Increased Accident Risk: Opens in new tabA broken brake light increases the risk of a rear-end collision because other drivers won’t have adequate warning of your actions, especially at night or in bad weather.

What to Do

• Replace the Bulb: Replace the burnt-out bulb immediately. 
• Get It Fixed: If you can’t fix it yourself, get the light repaired by a professional. 
• Carry Proof: Keep a receipt or other documentation to show the police that you’ve fixed the defect if you receive a notice. 

Can I get pulled over for my brake lights not working?

Yes, police can legally pull you over and issue a ticket for having a broken tail light. The wording on the citation will be either “no tail light” or “broken tail light.” You’re lucky the police officer just issued a warning.

What do I do if my brake light is out?

As mentioned before, start by checking the bulb and any fuses marked brake lights / turn signal / tail lights. In many vehicles, your turn signal bulb’s filament is shared by the brake light as well. This means that when your brake pedal is depressed, this filament lights up.

Can AutoZone fix brake lights?

No, AutoZone does not typically fix brake lights by performing the installation; however, they will sell you the correct brake light bulb, provide guidance on how to install it yourself, and in some cases, offer assistance with simple, accessible bulb replacements by using their basic tools. For complex issues beyond a bulb replacement, such as a faulty brake light switch or wiring problems, you will need to consult a professional mechanic, and AutoZone can help you find one through their Shop Referral Program. 
What AutoZone can help with:

• Part Sales: They stock a variety of brake light bulbs and can help you find the right one for your vehicle. 
• Guidance: AutoZone staff can offer advice and instructions on how to replace the bulb. 
• Simple Installations: Some locations will perform easy, accessible bulb replacements as a courtesy when you purchase parts from them. Call ahead to confirm this service at your local store. 

What you need to do:

• Check Your Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is the best source for information on how to replace the bulb. 
• Bring Your Vehicle: For a free in-store installation, visit your local AutoZone after confirming the service is available, and make sure your car is easily accessible for the task. 
• Use Their Tools: If they perform the installation, you can use their store’s basic tools. 

When to see a mechanic:

• Complex Replacements: If the light assembly is hard to reach or your vehicle requires tools beyond basic screwdrivers, a mechanic is a better option. 
• Persistent Problems: If the new bulb doesn’t fix the issue, or if your brake lights aren’t working at all, there may be a more significant problem, such as a faulty brake light switch or damaged wiring, which requires professional diagnosis. 
• AutoZone’s Referral Program: If the repair is beyond your skill level, AutoZone can help you find a qualified mechanic through their program.