What Does a Brake Light Bulb Repair Cost?

In fact, many car owners with general automotive knowledge can replace their taillight bulb. However, there are some causes of failure and other factors that will require a professional mechanic to diagnose and repair correctly.

Brake light replacement costs vary depending on your vehicle and where you get the work done, so use a repair estimator like the one in the Jerry app to get an accurate estimate.

What is a brake light bulb and how does it work?

The brake light bulb is located in rear taillight housings on every car, truck or SUV that is registered to operate in the U.S. The installation of center high mounted stop lamps (CHMSL) was implemented by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for new passenger vehicles in 1986 and extended to light trucks in 1994.

All vehicles today have three brake lights—the center brake light and two on the driver and passenger side taillights. On some vehicles, the brake light bulb is the same as the taillight. It operates as a two filament system that lights up dimly when the headlights are activated. When the brakes are pressed, the lightbulb illuminates brighter. 

Typically, pre-2000 cars have a dedicated taillight bulb and a single brake light bulb in each rear light housing. 

Having all functional brake lights is crucial to road safety, as it alerts drivers following you that you are decelerating. 

What influences the replacement cost? 

Several factors will influence the cost of repairing your brake light issue:

• The root issue: An unilluminated brake light can be caused by multiple issues. Typically, the most common cause of a brake light failure is a burned-out bulb, a blown fuse or a damaged brake light switch. These repair costs can range from $138 – $197+.
• Labor rates: Brake light labor rates are typically much less than engine or transmission repairs. In San Francisco, you’ll likely be charged $141 – $188 per hour, whereas in a rural area, the cost might be less.
• Dealership or local shop: Like all repairs, the type of repair shop you visit can impact the repair costs. Dealerships typically charge a premium for their expertise, while a local private shop tends to offer lower rates.
• Parts quality & type: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) replacement brake light bulbs can cost $15 – $30 per bulb. An aftermarket bulb purchased at an auto parts store ranges from $5 – $15 each. The quality difference between these two parts is usually minimal. Keep in mind that if your brake light bulb is an LED, the cost can double.
• Vehicle complexity: Some cars are harder than others to access the brake light bulb or taillights. Standard sedans, coupes and SUVs usually have a simple taillight rear cover to remove and replace the light bulb. However, luxury vehicles, EVs and hybrids are more difficult to access.
• Post-repair diagnostics: Most modern vehicles (post-2020) require the mechanic to reset the onboard computer after completing any electrical repairs. We see this more on European luxury brands like Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

• Ask a friend to press your brake pedal while you inspect the lights from behind your vehicle.
• After they press the brakes, check if both lights are working or only one. Also, have them activate the turn signals to see if they both work. If the same side of the vehicle is not working, it’s probably just a light bulb that needs to be replaced.

What’s involved in a brake light bulb repair?

A brake light bulb repair is a simple process for a repair shop or dealership to perform.

Step 1. Accessing the brake light bulb

• The technician will open the trunk or tailgate, then locate the brake light assembly with the damaged light bulb and remove a series of clips or screws that secures the assembly.
• Next, they will gently pull the assembly from the housing, ensuring to not damage or pull off any wiring.

Step 2. Removing and replacing the old bulb

• After getting access to the lightbulb, the technician will perform a quick diagnostic test by using a multimeter to ensure the lightbulb assembly is receiving power.
• Assuming the lightbulb housing is receiving a clean electrical circuit, the technician will twist the bulb socket in a counterclockwise direction to release it from the assembly housing.
• Once the old bulb has been removed, the technician will install the new light bulb while wearing gloves so as not to contaminate the bulb with fingerprints or oil.

Step 3. Reassembly of the brake light housing

• After the light bulb is secured, the technician will reinstall all of the taillight hardware in the reverse order of its removal, then complete the job by testing the brake lights and turn signals.

Can I do this repair myself?

If you’re comfortable using basic hand tools and following instructions listed in a basic service repair manual for your vehicle’s year, make and model, replacing a broken brake light bulb can be completed by the vehicle owner.

However, DIY brake light bulb replacement isn’t recommended for all vehicles or owners. If you own a newer (post-2020) or a luxury, EV or performance car, consider leaving this task to a professional mechanic. Many of these vehicles have complex control modules that require advanced diagnostic equipment to reset any warning or trouble codes.

What are some related services associated with a brake light repair?

If you wind up going to a mechanic to diagnose and fix your brake light issue, there are a few best practices that we’d recommend following:

1. Have the shop replace all of your brake lights. Typically, if one breaks, the others will quickly follow.
2. Have the brake light switch inspected and replaced if needed. The brake switch is located under your brake pedal and sends a signal to the taillights to illuminate. These can fail without warning.
3. A taillight housing inspection is another standard ad-hoc service. When a taillight becomes cracked or the seal is damaged, moisture will enter the housing. This can lead to major electrical repairs, including damaging the relays.
4. Brake system inspection is another option. While the brake lights do not impact the performance or operation of the braking system, it’s always a good idea to have a professional mechanic inspect your front and rear brakes for wear.