How many brake lights are there?
4 Answers
There are two brake lights at the rear of the car. The following introduces the base models of the rear brake lights: P21/5W: Also known as BAY15D or 1157, this base model lamp has a dual-filament structure, providing both brake warning and position functions. When in brake mode, the power is 21W, and when in position mode, the power is 5W. The position function is always on. W21/5W: Also known as 7443, this base model lamp also has a dual-filament structure, providing both brake warning and position functions. When in brake mode, the power is 21W, and when in position mode, the power is 5W. The position function is always on. P27/5W: Also known as 3157, this base model lamp also has a dual-filament structure, providing both brake warning and position functions. When in brake mode, the power is 21W, and when in position mode, the power is 5W. The position function is always on.
As someone who frequently works on cars, let me talk to you about brake light setups. On most family cars, the standard configuration includes three brake lights: two integrated into the taillight assemblies on either side of the rear, plus a high-mounted third brake light typically installed above the rear windshield. Their function is to illuminate red whenever the brake pedal is pressed, warning following vehicles that you're slowing down. This isn't arbitrary design - it's for safety redundancy; if one light fails, the others remain operational. The high-mounted light was added later because during emergency braking, its elevated position makes it more conspicuous, helping reduce rear-end collisions. In daily maintenance, I often encounter vehicles with brake light failures, caused by issues like burnt-out bulbs due to aging or poor wiring connections that prevent some lights from illuminating. Checking them is simple: have a friend press the brake pedal while you walk around the rear to observe which lights activate. If problems are found, promptly replace bulbs or visit a professional shop for repairs - don't cut corners on this seemingly minor issue, as it directly impacts driving safety. Never underestimate these lights; they can be lifesavers in critical moments.
I remember when I first started learning to drive, I was quite curious about how many brake lights there actually are. I asked my dad's friend who works at an auto repair shop, and he told me that regular cars usually have three: one on each side at the rear, and another one above the rear window. The high-mounted brake light is my favorite design because it makes it easier for vehicles behind to notice when I'm slowing down, especially during rainy days or nighttime driving when visibility is poor. Now that I've been driving for a few years, I occasionally check the bulbs myself—using a selfie stick to record a video of the rear of the car while pressing the brake pedal, then playing it back to see. Sometimes I find a light isn't working and replace it; buying a new bulb from the parts store only costs around ten yuan. I've also heard that some large SUVs or station wagons might have an extra light, but my small car has just three, which is enough. This has made me pay more attention to these small details because during my novice days, I once got rear-ended due to a non-functioning brake light, which was terrifying. Regular checks have since become a habit.
From a safety perspective, I must emphasize that brake lights typically come in sets of three: two on either side at the rear of the vehicle, plus an additional high-mounted one near the rear window. Why this configuration? It's all about redundancy. If one light fails, the others can still function normally, ensuring that following vehicles can see you're stopping. This is particularly crucial on highways or in congested areas to prevent rear-end collisions. I usually advise family and friends to conduct simple monthly checks—press the brake pedal to verify all lights are working. Common issues include expired bulbs needing replacement or loose wiring connections. Don't wait until you're fined by the police to address it! Remember, with all three lights operational, driving risks decrease significantly. Safety first—never delay fixing minor malfunctions.
