What Causes One Brake Light to Work While the Other Doesn't?
3 Answers
Reasons for one brake light working while the other doesn't: 1. It is highly likely due to a burnt-out filament in the brake light. After prolonged use, aging is normal, causing the brake light to malfunction, and it needs to be replaced promptly. 2. Of course, it could also be an issue with the wiring, which would require professional inspection. 3. There might be a faulty brake light switch. Below is relevant information about brake lights: 1. If the brake light switch is faulty, it can often result in the brake light staying on, not lighting up, or intermittently working. 2. Regardless of the issue, the impact is significant, as it prevents following vehicles from accurately detecting braking actions, thereby increasing the likelihood of rear-end collisions.
I once encountered a situation where one brake light was on while the other wasn't while driving. The most common cause is a burnt-out bulb. Over time, the filament in the bulb may break, especially when shaken on bumpy roads. But don't rush to replace the bulb—I recommend first checking if there's poor contact in the socket. Dust or oxidation can cause unstable circuits, leading to flickering or failure. Another issue could be the fuse; the brake light circuit has a small fuse, and if it blows, it can affect one side. If there's a short circuit in the wiring, like rodents chewing the harness, it can cause more serious problems. If you notice this issue while driving, pull over immediately, as the car behind might not see your brake signal, increasing the risk of a rear-end collision. Last time, I fixed it by replacing the bulb, but it's best to have a technician check the circuit with a multimeter during regular maintenance to prevent complete failure.
As a young person who just fixed this issue myself, when one brake light is on and the other isn't, it's usually due to a burnt-out bulb or a loose wiring harness. Bulbs have a limited lifespan, so it's normal for the left or right light to go out after use—just replace the new bulb for about 20 yuan, and you can easily learn how by watching online video tutorials. But don't just focus on the surface; make sure the bulb socket is firmly plugged in, as oxidation or water accumulation can cause poor contact. If replacing it doesn’t work, it might be the corresponding fuse in the fuse box that’s blown—its location is clearly labeled in the box under the driver’s footwell. Those who’ve modified their lights should also be cautious, as unstable voltage can damage a single light. Regularly checking the brake system is crucial to reduce the risk of getting a ticket or an accident while driving at night. If you notice an issue, first use your phone to take a photo and verify the bulb’s condition to ensure driving safety.
