Tail Light and Brake Light Difference? What causes them to fail?

TAIL-LIGHTS VS BRAKELIGHTS: ARE THESE TWO THE SAME?

When people talk about automotive lights, people sometimes use the term “brake lights” instead of “tail lights” or vice versa. It makes many people confused. So, are these terms actually the same? No, these are separate lights and have different functions. It is important to know what these lights do and where they’re exactly located and know their safety in automobiles.

Both of these lights are located on the rear side of the vehicle. Let’s get a deeper understanding of what they do.

TAILLIGHT VS BRAKE LIGHTS: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES

The major difference is that the led taillight lights up as soon as the engine is turned on and the brake lights light up only when the brake pedal is stepped on. Both the lights are red in color but the brake lights are more luminous comparatively.

BRAKE LIGHTS

What causes them to fail?

Sometimes brake lights fail to illuminate. There are several reasons why this might happen- dim bulbs, uncleaned lenses, faulty wirings, and blown-out fuses. Just like any other automotive part, brake lights also need repair and replacement. One must not ignore the impairment of a brake light in order to avoid accidents.

There is another brake light known as a center high-mouth stop lamp.
If you are wondering what is this, you are not alone! Many drivers are not aware of this.

It is located between the right and left brake light but at a slightly higher point.
this light is a fail-safe in case brake lights are not visible for any reason. It warns the following drivers about the impending braking action. Its location is higher than the other two so the drivers can see it easily.

TAIL-LIGHTS

Led taillights are illuminated when the headlights are turned on. They are less luminous compared to the brake lights. They are designed to be switched on in hazy, foggy, or dark conditions.

The purpose of tail lights is to indicate to the following drivers your presence when the visibility is impaired.

So, what causes them to fail? Taillights can also malfunction due to reasons like faulty wiring, cracked lenses, and faulty bulb filaments. Fixing these is easy and they are also affordable.

HOW TO CHECK YOUR REAR LIGHTS?

Your vehicle’s tail lights and brake lights’ well-functioning is necessary for your and others’ safety as well. These lights allow your fellow drivers to see that you are slowing down, so it’s important to ensure they’re working properly before driving. 

To check if your rear lights are working, turn on the headlights. The taillights should illuminate red once they’re on. Next, have someone stand behind your vehicle to check the brake lights. They should shine brighter than the tail lights once you step on the brake pedal. 

DOES THE TAILLIGHT AND BRAKE LIGHT SHARE THE SAME BULB?

Many vehicles share the same bulb. There are two filaments, one for the tail light other for the brake light. Some cars do have separate lights. You can check by having someone press the brake pedal and note if both are illuminated or just one.

In conclusion, whether it is a brake light or taillight, it is important that you keep a watch to check if they’re illuminating to avoid major accidents. Also, fixing them is a quick job.