Which bulb is the brake light on a Honda Civic?
For most 2001–2015 Honda Civic models, the left and right brake lights use a 7443 dual‑filament bulb in the outer rear lamp; starting with the 2016 model year, most Civics switched to integrated LED brake lights with no replaceable bulb. The high‑mounted center brake light (CHMSL) is typically a 921 bulb on many 2001–2015 sedans but is LED on several coupes and most 2016+ models. Below is a model‑by‑model breakdown and guidance on how to confirm your exact bulb type.
Contents
What “brake light” means on a Civic
Honda Civics have two brake light locations that owners commonly reference. The primary brake lamps are the left and right “stop/tail” lights in the rear corner lamp units. Many models also have a center high‑mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) in the rear window area or decklid. Knowing which one you’re replacing helps determine the correct bulb type.
Brake light bulb types by model year (North America)
The bulb specification depends on generation, body style, and trim. Here’s a practical guide covering the most common factory configurations in the U.S. and Canada.
- 1992–2000 Civic (5th/6th gen, most trims): Stop/tail commonly uses a dual‑filament bulb. Many U.S. models use 1157; some variants may use 7443. The CHMSL is typically a 921 bulb on sedans; certain trims may differ. Verify by checking the owner’s manual or the socket label.
- 2001–2005 Civic (7th gen): Stop/tail: 7443 (outer rear combination lamps). CHMSL: usually 921 on sedans; several coupe trims use an LED CHMSL module.
- 2006–2011 Civic (8th gen): Stop/tail: 7443 (outer rear combination lamps). CHMSL: typically 921 on sedans; many coupes use an LED CHMSL module.
- 2012–2015 Civic (9th gen): Stop/tail: 7443 (outer rear combination lamps). CHMSL: commonly 921 across most trims; some special editions may use LED.
- 2016–2021 Civic (10th gen, Sedan/Coupe/Hatchback): Brake lights are integrated LED modules in the outer rear lamps; there is no replaceable “bulb” for the stop function. The CHMSL is also LED on most trims. Turn signals may remain incandescent (e.g., 7440) on some models, but the brake function itself is LED.
- 2022–2025 Civic (11th gen): Brake lights are integrated LED modules in the outer rear lamps; CHMSL is LED. Replacement typically means replacing the lamp assembly if the LED fails.
Because regional equipment and trim packages can vary, always confirm your exact bulb by VIN in a parts catalog or by checking the owner’s manual and the bulb socket label on your vehicle.
How to confirm the correct bulb on your Civic
If you’re unsure which bulb your specific Civic uses, a quick check will prevent ordering the wrong part.
- Check the owner’s manual: Look under “Lights” or “Maintenance” for the stop/tail and CHMSL bulb listings.
- Inspect the socket: Remove the trunk liner or access panel, twist out the brake light socket, and read the code molded on the socket or printed on the bulb base (e.g., 7443, 1157, 921).
- Use a VIN‑based parts lookup: Online parts catalogs or a Honda dealer can pull the exact factory spec using your VIN.
- Look for LED telltales: If you see a circuit board or multiple small diodes behind the lens and no removable socket, your brake light is LED and not a replaceable bulb.
Taking a minute to verify will save time and ensure you purchase a bulb or assembly that fits and functions correctly.
Replacement notes and upgrade tips
Whether you’re swapping a burned‑out bulb or upgrading, the following points help ensure a trouble‑free fix.
- Use the correct type: For 2001–2015 Civics that take 7443, choose a dual‑filament (or dual‑intensity LED replacement) designed for combined stop/tail functions.
- Mind polarity and CANbus: LED retrofit bulbs may be polarity‑sensitive and could require CANbus‑compatible versions to avoid hyper‑flash or bulb‑out warnings (more common on turn signals than brake lights).
- Seal the housing: Make sure the socket O‑ring is seated to prevent moisture intrusion after reassembly.
- LED-equipped models: If your brake light is LED and fails, replacement typically involves the entire rear lamp assembly. Check warranty coverage; many LEDs are covered longer than standard bulbs.
Following these tips helps you maintain factory brightness, avoid warning issues, and keep the housing watertight after service.
Common pitfalls to avoid
Brake light service is straightforward, but a few mistakes can cause repeat failures.
- Mixing bulb types: Don’t install a single‑filament bulb (e.g., 7440) where a dual‑filament 7443 is required; you’ll lose either tail or brake function.
- Touching glass with bare fingers: For halogen‑type bulbs (e.g., 921), oils from skin can shorten life; handle with a tissue or gloves.
- Forcing connectors: If a socket doesn’t seat easily, re‑align; forcing can bend contacts or damage the housing.
- Ignoring intermittent LEDs: Flicker on LED lamps often indicates a failing assembly; replacing sooner can prevent a complete outage.
A careful, correct installation ensures full brightness, proper signaling, and longer component life.
Bottom line
On most 2001–2015 Honda Civics, the left/right brake lights use a 7443 dual‑filament bulb; from 2016 onward, the brake lights are typically integrated LEDs with no replaceable bulb. The center high‑mounted brake light is usually a 921 bulb on many 2001–2015 sedans and LED on coupes and most newer models. Always confirm via the owner’s manual, the socket/bulb markings, or a VIN‑based parts lookup for your exact trim and year.
Which bulb is the brake light on a 2015 Honda Civic?
7443R
Replacement Light Bulbs
| Coupe | |
|---|---|
| Back Up Light | |
| Standard : 921 $3.39 Add | Long Life : 912LED Call for More Information |
| Brake Light | |
| Standard : 7443R Call for More Information | Long Life : 7443RLED Call for More Information |
Which one is my brake light?
The brake light is the rear red light that illuminates brightly when you press the brake pedal to signal that you are slowing down or stopping. While it may use the same bulb as the tail light (which is less bright and activates with headlights), the brake light’s distinct function is its brighter, red glow that engages only during braking. You also have a high-mounted “third brake light” in the center of the rear of the vehicle for additional visibility.
You can watch this video to learn how to identify the brake light vs the tail light: 55sKamsiparts Automotive YouTube · Feb 16, 2024
How to tell if it’s your brake light:
- Observe from the rear: . Opens in new tabWith the car on, have someone step on the brake pedal to see which red light(s) in the rear of the vehicle become brighter.
- Check the third brake light: . Opens in new tabMany vehicles have a separate, high-mounted brake light that will also illuminate when you press the pedal.
- Consider the tail light: . Opens in new tabThe tail light will be illuminated by default when your headlights are on, but the brake light will only come on when you press the brake.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the brake light: 42sCharleston CraftedYouTube · Feb 4, 2024
Which light bulb is the brake light?
The bulb for your vehicle’s brake light depends on the make and model, as some cars use a single dual-filament bulb for both the tail lights and brake lights, while others have separate bulbs. To identify the correct brake light bulb, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual, look for a part number on the existing bulb after removing it, or use a vehicle information search tool from an auto parts store website or app.
This video shows how to remove the bulb and find its part number: 1mHomeowner RepairYouTube · Jul 14, 2018
How to Determine the Correct Bulb
- 1. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for information specific to your car’s lighting system.
- 2. Inspect the existing bulb:
- Remove the tail light assembly from the vehicle following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Locate the bulb and look for a part number printed on its side.
- 3. Use an online auto parts tool:
- Visit a website or app from a major auto parts retailer (like AutoZone.com).
- Enter your vehicle’s make, model, and year to find the correct brake light bulb.
Understanding Bulb Types
- Dual-filament bulbs: . Opens in new tabMany vehicles use a single bulb with two filaments. One filament illuminates for the tail lights (always on with headlights), and the second filament lights up brighter for the brake lights when the brake pedal is pressed.
- Separate bulbs: . Opens in new tabSome cars have distinct bulbs for the tail lights and the brake lights. In these cases, the brake light will be the brighter red light that illuminates only when you step on the brake.
How do I know which brake light bulb I need?
Brake lights are available as LED or halogen, usually in P21/5W and P21W fittings. Please check your vehicle handbook or use our Bulb Finder to find out which fitting your car needs – different vehicles use different fittings.
