Many people are confused about whether or not taillights and brake lights are the same bulb.
Are they different bulbs?
Are they both just called “brake lights”?
If you’re looking for an answer to the question: “are tail lights and brake lights the same bulb?”, then stick around as We’ll talk about what each light does, how to tell them apart, and the best practices to observe when planning for their replacements.
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Are Tail Lights and Brake Lights the Same Bulb?
Whether or no tail lights and brake lights are the same bulb depends on the car model. For some, a dual filament bulb is used. Here, the 1st filament lights up as tail light, while the 2nd filament lights up when the brake pedal is pressed. While in some cars, different bulbs are used respectively.
In cases where there is a 3rd brake light (usually on the hood or behind the back windshield), then the bulbs are different.
About Tail Lights and Brake Lights
Now that we have address the question of are tail lights and brake lights the same bulb, let’s learn about what these lights are, their functions, differences between the two and the best practices to observe when planning to have them removed and new ones installed.
Taillights
The taillight is a red light usually amongst other lights like white (that signifies when a car wants to reverse) and amber (which indicates when a car wants to turn left or right) usually positioned at the back of a car just above the bumper.
Taillights are automatically powered on when the headlamps are turned on thus saving the driver from the hassles of having to turn the them on and off manually which they can sometimes forget.
Tail lights are used for a number of reasons, but mainly they serve as an indication that you’re driving behind someone so that other drivers can see your car in traffic or at night when visibility is low.
The brake light also known as stop lamps are activated by
Tail Light Functions
There are several functions that tail lights perform and in this section, we’ll go over the most important ones.
It informs other drivers and pedestrians of your presence and location in traffic. More specifically, it helps other drivers see your car when it’s dark outside or during foggy weather conditions thus reducing the risk of being involved in a collision with other drivers.
Alerts You from Getting too Close Behind Other Cars
With the aid of tail lights, you can easily maintain a safe driving distance from the car ahead of you, thereby reducing the risk of bumping into them from behind.
Brake Lights
Just like tail lights, brake lights are red light (but brighter than taillights) that are located at the rear of a vehicle just above the bumper.
Unlike tail lights, brake lights only come on or lights up when the brake pedal is pressed and immediately turn off when the brake pedal is released.
Tail Light Functions
Brake lights have several functions, and in this section, we will go over their primary functions.
Alert Other Drivers that You are Slowing Down
The purpose of a brake light is to signal other drivers that you are slowing down or stopping so they can react accordingly, such as allowing more distance between your car and theirs, turning left or right, stopping to pick someone etc.
Difference Between Taillight and Brake Light
Brake light and taillight differs in colors, mode of operation and functions.
Since we have already examined their functions in the previous paragraphs, in this section, we will be discussing the difference in their colors and mode of operation.
Differences Based on Color
While both car lights are mostly red in color, the tail lights are always dimmer than the brake light. Even with the tail lights ON, you will often notice the light globe becomes brighter ones the brake light comes ON.
This differences in the light brightness is what helps other drivers and cyclist to notice when the brake is suddenly applied.
Differences Based on Mode of Operation
Here, while the tail lights will only light up automatically when the headlamps are ON, the brake lights on the other hand, will light up automatically when the brake pedal is pressed down and goes OFF once the brake pedal is released.
Testing Your Tail and Brake Lights to Ensure they are Working Properly
Testing to confirm that your tail and brake lights are functioning properly is not only important for the safety of you and everyone around you, but it is also required by law.
You can easily be arrested or fined by the law enforcers should either of the lights malfunction or completely stop to work.
To save yourself from a possible trouble, it is best to perform this simple test before you head out for your next drive.
A simple yet effective way of confirming if your taillights are functioning correctly is to have your friends or spouse stand behind the car and confirm that the lights are indeed working as you turn ON and OFF the lights respectively.
If your tail or brake lights are not working properly, consult with a professional who can help identify the problem. In some cases, you may need to replace one or more of your taillights if they have burned out.
Tail & Brake Lights Bulb Replacement
Getting your brake and or tail lights replaced can be tricky.
Especially, if you failed at answering the question: “are tail lights and brake lights the same bulb for your car?”.
To prevent buying the wrong bulb which will end up not working properly, always ensure that you take the old bulb along with you to the auto shop.
That way, the technician can easily match the bulb to your car’s specifications.
In cases where loosening the light compartment by yourself proves difficult or impossible, you can always consult a qualified and competent mechanic to do it for you.
Are Tail Lights and Brake Lights the Same Bulb?
Conclusion:
When it comes to answering the question: “are tail lights and brake lights the same bulb?”, the answer will always depend on the make and model of your car.
While some cars use a dual filament bulb, which lit up either the tail or brake lights depending on what you need it for, other cars may have separate bulbs dedicated to each function.
If you’re not sure about your car, consult with an expert for clarification.