Tail Light Wiring Color Code

The color code for tail light wiring can vary depending on the vehicle and the specific tail light assembly.

Tail light wiring color codes are essential when repairing or replacing the tail lights on your vehicle. These codes are standard across most vehicles, but it is always best to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a professional mechanic.

The primary color code for tail light wiring is as follows:

Red: Stop/tail light
Black: Tail light
Green: Right turn signal
Yellow: Left turn signal

Red: The red wire is typically used for the stop/tail light, the center light on the tail light assembly. This light is used when the brakes are applied, and it is also used as the tail light when the headlights are on.

Black: The black wire is typically used for the tail light and the exterior light on the tail light assembly. This light is used when the headlights are on, providing additional visibility to the vehicle’s rear.

Green: The green wire is typically used for the right turn signal. This wire connects to the right turn signal bulb on the tail light assembly.

Yellow: The yellow wire is typically used for the left turn signal. This wire connects to the left turn signal bulb on the tail light assembly.

In addition to these primary colors, other wires may be in the tail light wiring harness. These may include white, blue, and brown wires, typically used for additional functions such as reverse and brake lights.

When repairing or replacing the tail lights on your vehicle, connecting the wires to the correct terminals on the tail light assembly is essential.

Using the wrong color wire can cause the lights to malfunction, which can be dangerous and result in a traffic citation.

To ensure that the tail light wiring is installed correctly, it is best to consult a professional mechanic or refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagram.

This diagram can usually be found in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or obtained from the vehicle manufacturer. The wiring diagram will show the color of each wire and its function, as well as the location of each wire in the tail light assembly.

Table of Contents

Stop/Turn/Tail Light Wiring Diagram

FAQs

Q: What color is the wire for tail lights?

The color of the wire for tail lights can vary depending on the vehicle and the specific tail light assembly. In most cases, the wire for tail lights is black. However, it’s always best to check the particular wiring diagram for your vehicle. You can find this information in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or consult a professional mechanic for assistance.

Q: What are the three wires to a tail light?

The three wires commonly connected to a tail light are the stop/tail light wire, the tail light wire, and the ground wire.

The stop/tail light wire carries the power for the stop and tail lights. This wire is usually red.
The tail light wire carries the power for the tail lights only. This wire is usually black.
The ground wire allows the electrical current to flow to the vehicle’s electrical system. This wire is usually connected to the vehicle’s chassis and is typically bare or coated in green insulation.

It’s important to note that the specific wiring configuration for a tail light can vary depending on the vehicle and the particular tail light assembly.

Q: Which tail light wire is positive?

The positive tail light wire is the stop/tail light wire. This wire carries the power for the stoplights and the taillights, usually red. The other tail light wire, usually black, only carries the power for the tail lights.

Conclusion

The Color code for tail light wiring is essential in ensuring your tail lights function correctly.

By knowing the color code and consulting the vehicle’s wiring diagram, you can ensure your tail lights are correctly connected and functioning.

If you’re uncomfortable working with vehicle wiring, having a professional mechanic install and repair your tail lights is best. This will help ensure your vehicle is safe and compliant with the law.