Which fuse is responsible for brake lights?

In most vehicles, the brake light circuit is protected by a 10–15A fuse labeled STOP, STOP LAMP, BRAKE, or CHMSL, usually located in the interior (instrument panel) fuse box; check the fuse-box cover or the owner’s manual for the exact slot and rating. Some models split the circuit into separate fuses—for the center high‑mount stop lamp (CHMSL) and for trailer/tow brake lights—and many late‑model cars route the circuit through a body control module (BCM), which still relies on one or more STOP/STOP LAMP fuses for power.

Where to find the brake light fuse

Automakers commonly place the brake light fuse in one of a few locations. The label and location diagram on the fuse-box cover or in the owner’s manual will point you to the correct slot.

• Interior fuse box (instrument panel): Often on the driver’s side under the dash or behind a kick panel; frequently where the STOP/STOP LAMP fuse lives.
• Engine bay fuse/relay box: Some vehicles house a brake-related fuse or relay here, especially for tow/CHMSL circuits.
• Trunk/cargo-area fuse panel: More common on some European vehicles, where lighting fuses may reside in the rear.

If you’re unsure which panel to open, start with the interior fuse box, then check the engine-bay panel; the correct location is always shown in the fuse-box lid diagram and the owner’s manual.

What the fuse is called and its rating

Manufacturers use a few standard labels for the brake light fuse, and the current rating is typically modest to protect the wiring and bulbs/LED drivers.

• Typical labels: STOP, STOP LAMP, BRAKE, CHMSL (center high‑mount stop lamp), TOW STOP/TOW LT (trailers on tow‑package vehicles).
• Common ratings: 10A or 15A mini-blade fuse (some variants use 7.5A or 20A depending on design and added equipment).
• Multiple fuses: Many trucks/SUVs separate CHMSL and trailer-brake lamps from the main left/right brake lamps; some newer cars feed the BCM via a STOP LP/STOP SW fuse.

Match the replacement fuse to the exact label and amperage shown for your vehicle; installing a higher-amp fuse can damage wiring or modules.

How to confirm the fuse is the issue

If your brake lights don’t work, a quick, methodical check can tell you whether the fuse is to blame or if the fault lies elsewhere (bulbs, switch, wiring, or BCM).

1. Identify the fuse: Use the fuse-box cover diagram or the owner’s manual to find STOP/STOP LAMP/CHMSL-related fuses.
2. Inspect the fuse: Pull it straight out; a blown fuse shows a broken metal element. Replace only with the same amperage.
3. Test with a meter or test light: With ignition on, both test points on top of the fuse should have power (some designs power only with pedal pressed).
4. Recheck operation: If the new fuse blows immediately, suspect a shorted bulb/socket, chafed wiring at the trunk/hinge, trailer wiring faults, or water intrusion in lamp housings.
5. Check the brake light switch and BCM: If fuses are good but lights don’t illuminate, test the brake pedal switch (often above the pedal) and scan for BCM fault codes on newer vehicles.

This sequence isolates a simple blown fuse from deeper electrical issues, helping you avoid repeated fuse failures and misdiagnosis.

What the pattern of failure tells you

The number and location of inoperative lights can quickly narrow your search to the correct fuse or component.

• All rear brake lights out: Likely STOP/STOP LAMP fuse, brake switch, or BCM power feed.
• Only center (CHMSL) out: Check CHMSL fuse or CHMSL module/wiring; main STOP fuse may be fine.
• One side out: Usually a bulb/LED module, socket, or ground issue—not the fuse.
• Brake lights stay on: Brake pedal switch misadjusted/stuck; rarely a fuse issue.
• Trailer brake lights inoperative but vehicle lights OK: Check tow-specific STOP/TOW LT fuse and trailer wiring.

Using the symptom pattern saves time by pointing straight to the most likely fuse or component.

Special cases on newer vehicles

Modern platforms often integrate brake light control with modules and may distribute power across multiple fuses or solid-state drivers.

• BCM-managed lighting: The BCM may power left/right brake lamps separately; you may find multiple STOP/LP fuses feeding the module.
• LED tail lamps: Individual LED drivers can fail without blowing a fuse; diagnostics with a scan tool may be required.
• Adaptive brake lights: Vehicles with flashing/high-intensity emergency braking use additional control logic but still rely on the same STOP power feed.

If you have BCM-managed lighting, a scan for diagnostic trouble codes can reveal open/short conditions even when fuses are intact.

Safety and replacement tips

Correct fuse replacement protects your vehicle’s wiring and ensures reliable brake light operation.

• Always replace with the exact same amp rating and fuse type (mini/micro/ATO blade).
• Never upsize a fuse to “fix” repeated blows; find and repair the underlying short.
• Inspect bulb sockets and harnesses for corrosion, water, and chafed insulation—common causes of blown fuses.
• If equipped with a trailer connector, disconnect and retest; trailer faults frequently blow STOP/CHMSL fuses.

Taking a few minutes to verify the correct rating and inspect the circuit prevents repeat failures and potential damage.

Quick reference: how to find the right answer for your car

If you need the exact fuse number and slot for your model, these sources will have it.

• The owner’s manual (glovebox or manufacturer’s website PDF).
• Fuse-box cover diagram (inside the lid).
• Manufacturer service information or dealer parts department.
• Trusted model-specific forums or repair databases with wiring diagrams.

These references provide precise fuse locations and labels for your year, make, and model.

Summary

The brake light circuit is typically protected by a 10–15A fuse labeled STOP, STOP LAMP, BRAKE, or CHMSL, most often in the interior fuse panel. Use the fuse-box diagram or owner’s manual to identify the exact slot, verify the fuse with a visual check or test light, and replace it with the same rating. If the new fuse blows or the lights remain inoperative, inspect bulbs/sockets, the brake pedal switch, trailer wiring, and—on newer cars—the BCM-managed lighting circuits.

How to reset the brake system light?

To reset a brake system light, you must first consult your car’s owner’s manual as the procedure varies by vehicle. In general, you can try resetting the light by checking the brake fluid level, using an OBD-II scanner to clear codes, performing a battery disconnect, or accessing a maintenance menu via the instrument cluster. If the light remains on, a mechanic should inspect the brake components.
 
Check the Brake Fluid Level 

1. Locate the master cylinder reservoir: under the hood.
2. Check the brake fluid level, ensuring it’s between the minimum and maximum marks.
3. If the fluid is low, top it off to the maximum level and see if the light goes out.
4. If the fluid level is adequate, the low brake fluid sensor may be faulty.

Use an OBD-II Scanner 

1. An OBD-II scanner can read and clear fault codes from the vehicle’s computer. 
2. If your vehicle has a persistent ABS or brake warning light, using a scanner can help identify and resolve the underlying issue. 

Perform a Battery Reset 

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery. 
2. Allow the vehicle’s electrical system to discharge residual power for about 10-15 minutes by activating the headlight switch. 
3. Reconnect the battery terminal and restart the vehicle. 

Access the Maintenance Menu (Specific to Some Vehicles)

1. Turn the ignition on: without starting the engine. 
2. Press and hold the odometer reset button: until the maintenance or service interval menu appears. 
3. Scroll through the options: to find the brake service or pad reset function. 
4. Press and hold the button: to select and reset the function. 

What to Do If the Light Persists
If the brake system light remains on after trying these steps, there is likely a more serious issue with the brake system. 

• Consult the car’s owner’s manual: for specific reset procedures. 
• Seek assistance from a qualified mechanic: to diagnose the problem, as this could indicate issues with worn brake pads, sensors, ABS components, or wiring. 

Why are my brake lights not working but tail lights do?

Taillights Not Working but Brake Lights Are: Common Causes Taillight bulbs burning out prematurely and faulty taillight wiring harness connections. When taillights fail but brake lights work, first check the taillight bulbs for proper filament function.

Is there a fuse for the brake system?

Yes, cars have a fuse for the brake lights, and it’s often labeled “STOP” or “BRAKE” in the fuse box diagram. To find it, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the location of the fuse box and a diagram of its fuses. If the fuse is blown, replacing it with a new one of the same amperage can restore your brake lights, but you may also need to check the brake light switch or bulbs if the issue persists.
 
This video explains how to find the brake light fuse and what to look for when inspecting it: 57sproclaimliberty2000YouTube · Aug 3, 2024
Where to Find the Fuse 

1. Locate the Fuse Box: The brake light fuse is usually in the main fuse box under the dashboard on the driver’s side, but some trucks and SUVs may have an additional fuse box in the engine compartment.
2. Consult the Owner’s Manual: Use your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find the specific location of the fuse box and to identify the brake light fuse from its diagram.
3. Identify the Fuse: Look for the fuse labeled “STOP,” “BRAKE,” or a similar term that refers to the brake lights.

How to Check and Replace a Fuse

1. Turn Off the Car: Always ensure the car is completely off before inspecting or replacing any fuses to avoid electric shock. 
2. Remove the Fuse: Pull out the suspect fuse to inspect it for a broken filament or visible damage. 
3. Replace if Blown: If the fuse is blown (has a broken wire inside), replace it with a new fuse that has the exact same amperage rating. 
4. Check Other Components: If the fuse looks good or replacing it doesn’t fix the problem, the issue could be a faulty brake light switch or damaged bulbs or wiring. 

This video shows how to check the brake light switch and other components when the fuse is not the problem: 59sDannys DIY GarageYouTube · Jun 28, 2025

Is there a fuse that controls brake lights?

Yes, a fuse for the brake lights exists in a vehicle’s electrical system to protect against overcurrents. You’ll need to locate your specific car’s fuse box, either under the dashboard or hood, and consult the fuse box cover diagram or your owner’s manual to find the fuse labeled for “Brake Lights” or “Stop Lamps”. If this fuse is blown (indicated by a broken wire inside), you must replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage to restore brake light function.
 
This video shows how to locate and identify a blown fuse in a car’s fuse box: 57sproclaimliberty2000YouTube · Aug 3, 2024
How to Check and Replace the Fuse

1. Locate the Fuse Box: Open the fuse box, which is typically under the dashboard or under the hood, often near the battery. 
2. Identify the Brake Light Fuse: Find the diagram on the fuse box cover or in your car’s owner’s manual to locate the fuse specifically for the brake lights. 
3. Inspect the Fuse:
   • Pull the fuse out using a fuse puller (often found in the fuse box) or needle-nose pliers. 
   • Visually inspect the fuse for a broken or melted wire inside. 
4. Replace if Blown: If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the exact same amperage. 
5. Test: Have someone press the brake pedal while you check to see if the brake lights are now working. 

What If the Fuse Isn’t Blown?

• Check the Bulbs: If the fuse is good, the problem could be a burnt-out bulb. 
• Check the Switch: A faulty brake light switch, located on the brake pedal assembly, is another common cause of non-working brake lights. 
• Check the Wiring: Look for any loose connections or corrosion in the wiring harnesses. 

You can watch this video to see the symptoms of a bad brake light switch: 55sStudent LessonYouTube · Oct 26, 2023