The brake lamp is an essential component of your car as a driver because it indicates your brake activities. Taking your brake light seriously is crucial to avoid getting into trouble on the road, mainly if you drive on busy roads.
If your brake light or lamp is not working correctly, you should fix it by finding the most efficient solution as quickly as possible to prevent an accident.
In this article, we’ll fix the most common brake lamp faults.
Wiring Problems
Faulty wiring is a frequent cause of brake lamp malfunction. Wires are the conduits for all electrical connections in your vehicle, including switches and sensors.
When the wires connecting your brake lamps to the buttons, brake pedals, and fuse are cut, burned, or poorly connected, it disrupts the electrical flow, resulting in improper brake lamp function. Short circuits in the wiring can also contribute to this problem.
How to solve wiring problems
- Replacing damaged wires or rewiring them with the most effective cables is necessary.
- It is essential to use tape on exposed wiring
- Tighten any loose connections, as well as clean all terminals
Faulty Brake Light Bulb
Many drivers are unaware that brake light bulbs can become faulty over time, mainly if used for an extended period. Accidents or other damages may also contribute to a defective brake light bulb.
It is common for brake bulbs to lose their brightness and become dim as they age. When brake light bulbs exceed their useful lifespan, they will no longer shine brightly. If this is the case, A message on your car dashboard will indicate a “Brake Lamp Bulb Fault” if this is the case.
It is crucial to address this issue promptly to prevent a rear-collision accident.
How to Solve Faulty Brake Light Bulb
- Losing the defective bulb’s case using a bolt would be best.
- Now, you must unplug the bulb and physically inspect the bulb filament. (In case you find any filament has dark smoke on it or is dark brown, then it is terrible)
- Now you need to replace it with a spare bulb or a new one you can get from an auto shop.
- Then, close the bulb’s case and tighten it.
Bad Brake Switch
It’s important to understand that your car’s brake light or brake lamp is intended to illuminate only when the brake pedal is pressed. The brake light switch is positioned near the pedal, responding immediately to pressure and activating the rear brake lights.
If this switch malfunctions, it can trigger the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) warning light. This scenario is concerning because drivers behind you won’t know you’re slowing down, potentially leading to an accident. It’s crucial to promptly address any issues with your brake light switch to ensure your safety on the road.
How to solve lousy brake switch problems
Fixing the brake switch is a critical repair that requires specialized knowledge and qualifications. Therefore, it is not recommended that you attempt this repair yourself. Hiring a qualified mechanic to handle the repair for you is essential.
Finding a nearby mechanic to repair as soon as possible is recommended to avoid delays. This will ensure that your brake system is functioning correctly and will prevent any potential accidents in the future.
Blown Fuse
If you see the message “Brake Lamp Bulb Fault,” a blown fuse might cause this issue.
A fuse controls the brake lamp in your car, and a problem with the fuse could lead to the brake light not functioning, even if the bulb or brake light switch is working correctly.
You can locate the brake light fuse in the power distribution center, which is usually located either underneath the dashboard or under the hood of your car.
How to Solve Blown Fuse Problems
One of the reasons why you might see the “Brake Lamp Bulb Fault” message could be a blown fuse. The brake lamp’s function relies on a fuse; if blown, the brake light may stop working even if there’s no issue with the bulb or switch.
The brake light fuse is typically located under the hood or beneath the dashboard in the power distribution center. To replace the blown fuse, you need to follow these instructions:
- First, switch off your vehicle to avoid any risk of electric shock.
- Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to locate the brake lamp fuse.
- Find the blown fuse, which is usually discolored and may have a cut wire.
- Remove the blown fuse and replace it with a new one.
Check if the issue has been resolved by testing the brake light. If the brake lamp still does not work, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic to resolve the issue. Remember that blown fuses are not repairable, and replacement is the only solution.
VIDEO ON FIXING BRAKE LAMP FAULT
FAQs
What’s a Brake Lamp Bulb Fault?
The warning message “Brake Lamp Bulb Fault” indicates a problem with your vehicle’s braking system that is causing the brake lamps to malfunction.
Is It Safe to Drive With a Faulty Brake Lamp Bulb?
Driving with a faulty brake lamp bulb can be dangerous as it increases the risk of accidents and may lead to a ticket. In case you notice a malfunctioning brake light while driving, it is essential to activate your hazard lights to alert other road users promptly.
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