How do brake lights work?
Brake lights warn drivers when you are slowing down or stopping. They are a function that is often taken for granted in a vehicle. When brake lights fail to function correctly, they can cause accidents.FunctionA switch attached to the brake pedal is triggered when you depress the pedal. This closes the circuit and sends electric current from the battery to the light bulbs at the rear of the vehicle, causing the brake lights to come on.Third Brake LightMost newer model cars have a third brake light mounted at eye level or at the top of the back window that comes on when the brake pedal is depressed.Fuse FeatureThere are fuses in the fuse box on all vehicles that go to the brake light circuit. This fuse blows if there is problem with a brake light circuit, such as a short.Brake Light BulbsBrake light bulbs are often described as DOT/SAE approved, which stands for Division of Transportation/Society of Automotive Engineers.FailuresCommon brake light failures include shorts due to a bare wi
