Why are the running lights on but the brake lights not working?
3 Answers
The reasons and solutions for the running lights being on but the brake lights not working are as follows: 1. Check the brake light bulb: The brake light is the most frequently used light on a car, and the lifespan of the bulb is relatively short. When the brake light is not working, the first thing to consider is the brake light bulb. Simply replace the bulb. 2. Check the brake light switch: If the brake light switch is faulty, none of the brake lights will work. During inspection, you can use a wire to connect the brake light switch. If the brake lights turn on, it indicates the switch is damaged, and replacing the switch will solve the problem. 3. Check the fuse: If both the bulb and the switch are confirmed to be functioning properly, then check the fuse. Some cars do not have a separate fuse for the brake lights and share one with other electrical devices. In this case, check the operation of other electrical devices in the car. Identify any non-working devices and replace the corresponding fuse. 4. Check the brake light ground wire: The tail lights on a car share a common ground wire. If the ground wire is broken or has a poor connection, it can also cause the brake lights to not work. Therefore, do not forget to check the ground wire.
My car had the issue of the running lights being on but the brake lights not working before. That time, it was on the highway when a friend pointed it out to me. After checking, I found out it was a burnt-out brake light bulb. The filament was broken, which was easy to replace, but it could also be a faulty or poorly connected switch at the brake pedal. Aging wiring can cause a short circuit, or a fuse might blow in the fuse box. I replaced the bulb, and it was fixed. I recommend checking the brake lights when parking normally—safety first. If this kind of fault isn’t repaired promptly, it could lead to a rear-end collision, making it hard for others to see you slowing down, which is a significant risk. It’s best to go to a professional shop for a thorough inspection to avoid minor issues turning into major repairs, which can be costly and time-consuming. Remember, light bulbs typically last a few years, so replace them periodically—don’t wait until they fail.
When I first started learning to drive, I encountered a situation where the running lights were on but the brake lights wouldn't turn off. After checking online, the simplest solution was a burnt-out bulb—replacing it with a new one fixed the issue. It could also be due to an improperly positioned brake switch or loose wiring. A friend advised me not to panic and suggested checking the fuse or connectors first. I tried adjusting the components near the pedal and found that sometimes they didn't make proper contact. When driving, remember to ask someone to check the lights for you to avoid safety hazards. Regular maintenance is key, as small issues are easier to fix. Never ignore the details—address any lighting abnormalities promptly.
