Brake lights are an essential safety feature on your vehicle, alerting drivers behind you when you’re slowing down or stopping. If one or both of your brake lights are not working, it’s crucial to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible for your safety and to avoid potential legal issues.
The cost of replacing brake lights can vary depending on several factors, such as the make and model of your vehicle, the type of bulbs needed, and where you have the work done. In this article, we’ll explore the typical costs associated with brake light replacement and provide some tips to help you save money.
Factors Affecting Brake Light Replacement Cost
Several factors can influence the cost of replacing your brake lights:
- Vehicle make and model: The cost of replacement bulbs can vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model. Some luxury or high-end vehicles may require more expensive bulbs.
- Number of bulbs needed: If you need to replace both brake lights, the cost will be higher than if you only need to replace one.
- Type of bulbs: Halogen bulbs are generally less expensive than LED bulbs. However, LED bulbs are more energy-efficient and longer-lasting.
- Labor costs: If you have a mechanic or auto parts store replace the bulbs for you, you’ll need to factor in labor costs, which can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the shop’s hourly rate.
Average Cost of Brake Light Replacement
The average cost of replacing a single brake light bulb ranges from $5 to $30, depending on the type of bulb and your vehicle’s make and model. If you need to replace both brake lights, the total cost can range from $10 to $60 or more.
If you have a mechanic or auto parts store replace the bulbs for you, you’ll need to add labor costs to the price of the bulbs. Labor costs can range from $10 to $50 or more per hour, depending on the shop’s hourly rate.
For example, if a mechanic charges $100 per hour and it takes them 30 minutes to replace both brake light bulbs, the total cost would be around $100 (labor) $20 (two bulbs at $10 each) = $120.
Replacing Brake Lights Yourself
If you’re comfortable working on your vehicle and have the necessary tools, you can save money by replacing your brake light bulbs yourself. This can be a relatively simple task, depending on your vehicle’s make and model.
To replace the bulbs yourself, you’ll need:
- Replacement bulbs (check your owner’s manual for the correct type)
- Screwdrivers or socket wrenches (depending on your vehicle)
- Gloves (to avoid getting oils from your skin on the bulbs)
- Bulb grease (optional, but can help the bulbs last longer)
The process typically involves opening the trunk, removing the tail light assembly or accessing the bulbs directly, removing the old bulbs, and inserting the new ones. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your vehicle.
By replacing the bulbs yourself, you can save anywhere from $10 to $50 or more in labor costs. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your vehicle or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s best to have a professional handle the job.
Avoiding Driving with Bad Brake Lights
It’s essential to avoid driving with bad brake lights for several reasons:
- Safety: Without functioning brake lights, drivers behind you may not be able to tell when you’re slowing down or stopping, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision.
- Legal issues: In many states, it’s illegal to drive with a malfunctioning brake light. You could receive a ticket and be required to fix the issue before your vehicle can be driven again.
- Liability: If you’re involved in an accident while driving with bad brake lights, you may be found partially or fully liable, even if the other driver was at fault.
If you notice that one or both of your brake lights are not working, it’s best to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible to ensure your safety and avoid potential legal and financial consequences.
Conclusion
The cost of replacing brake lights can vary widely, from $20 to $150 or more, depending on your vehicle’s make and model and where you have the work done. By understanding the factors that affect the cost and considering replacing the bulbs yourself, you can save money while ensuring your vehicle is safe and legal to drive.
Remember, it’s crucial to avoid driving with bad brake lights, as it can compromise your safety, lead to legal issues, and increase your liability in the event of an accident. If you notice a problem with your brake lights, have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible to protect yourself and others on the road.