This is specifically irritating and confusing when driving along a road at night and realizing that the tail lights are not working, but the brake lights are. Taillights are very important in that they allow the car to be seen by other motorists, most especially during the night or in cases of poor visibility, such as during a storm. Well, now, let’s take a look at the causes of your tail lights not working and how you can rectify this.
Difference Between Tail Lights and Brake Lights
To start, we have to differentiate between tail lights and brake lights. They light when your headlights are on, thus helping other motorists see that you are around. Signal lights, on the other hand, light up only when you switch the signals on to direct other drivers that you are either changing lanes, making a turn, or executing a stop.Â
Legal Implications of Faulty Tail Lights
Failing to fix the tail lights while driving can attract legal consequences. Polices may pull you over, and you can be booked for not having working lights. Instead, it is more relevant because it raises the probability of an accident, as other motorists may not notice the car in poor visibility.
Common Reasons for Tail Lights Not Working
Blown Fuse
First of all, the fuse could have blown, and this can be one of the most frequent causes of failure in working tail lights. Fuses are used to safeguard the electrical system of a car since they interrupt the circuit in case of an overload. When a fuse has been blown, this has to be replaced to work again.
Burnt-Out Bulbs
It is also important to note that sometimes the bulb used in tail lights can develop a problem and go off. If your brake lights are functioning fine while the tail lights are not, then it is quite probable that the bulbs of the tail lights are burnt out.
Wiring Issues
Faulty wiring is also another possible cause of failure in tail lights. Wires can wear out, rust, or get disconnected; thus, the flow of electricity needed to light the bulbs is hampered.
Faulty Tail Light Switch
This switch which is often mounted on the dashboard, is used in operating the tail lights. If this switch is bad your tail lights will not function even if the bulbs and the fuse are perfectly good.
Issues with the Socket
At other times it is the holder that houses the bulb that becomes problematic. Both corrosion or dirt accumulation on the bulbs and the contacts may reduce the flow of current, causing the tail lights not to work.
Diagnosing the Problem
Initial Inspection
First and foremost, it is always appropriate to conduct a general check of the item. It is necessary to make sure the bulbs are unbroken and the fuse or wiring is not visibly damaged.
Using a Multimeter
A multimeter is generally a valuable device for testing electromechanical problems. They include its use in checking for continuity and voltage in the tail light circuit. This can assist in identifying if the cause of the issue is a funeral location of either the fuse, bulb or wiring.
Checking the Fuse
Take the time to look for the location of the fuse for your car and specifically probe for the fuse for the tail lights. If the fuse is blown, then check and replace the fuse with a new one with the same rating.
Examining the Bulbs
Pull out and review the tail light bulbs it is most likely they are burned out or dim. This essential piece of information is that if the filament inside a bulb is damaged in any way, then the bulb is spoiled and must be replaced.
Inspecting the Wiring
Wire damage or corrosion is something that I need to watch out for. Last but not least; kindly ensure that all connectors are properly connected, as a loose connection could lead to a short circuit.
Solutions to Fix Tail Lights
Replacing a Blown Fuse
If you have confirmed that you have a problem with a fused bulb, replacing it is very easy. Acquire a new fuse with the same amperage capacity as the damaged one, and replace it within the fuse box.
Changing Burnt-Out Bulbs
It is also easy to change a bulb that has or a lamp that has developed issues like burning out. Acquire the right bulb for the car, unscrew the wrong bulb and replace it with the new one.
Repairing or Replacing Wiring
If you have evidence of the wiring cable being damaged, you might have to rewire it to the appropriate level. This can be a little more difficult, so be sure this is an area where you feel efficient in electrical work or hire a professional.
How to Replace or Repair the Tail Light Switch
Influenced in this case, the tail light switch may be faulty and may require to be repaired or changed. For detailed instructions, consult the car’s owner’s manual, or better yet, take your vehicle to a professional technician.
Cleaning the Socket/ or Replacing the Socket
It is possible to clean the socket that is dirty or corroded using a wire brush and some electricity contact cleaner. In cases where the socket is very much affected, this may require replacement.
Preventive Measures
Regular Maintenance
Common problems that normally affect tail lights can be avoided through proper maintenance. Semi-annually inspect your lights to make certain that they appear to be operating efficiently as envisioned.
Periodic Inspections
It is recommended that at least weekly checks should also entail lighter forms of inspection. Indeed it is said that a cure taken in time can cure a disease. Similarly, an error noticed on time can save you more severe problems in future.
Using Quality Parts
When making replacements, one needs to ensure they use high-quality parts. Economy and substandard components could prove to be unreliable and, therefore, require frequent replacement.Â
Conclusion
Just like any other working car lights, tail lights are essential for your safety and legal reasons. By evaluating different causes of failure of a tail light and ways of diagnosing and solving the issues, one may be in a position to save a lot of money, energy as well as time. It is also important to note that most of these problems can be avoided if the equipment is serviced and checked often.Â
FAQs
What causes tail lights to stop working but not brake lights?
This can be due to a blown fuse, burnt-out bulbs, wiring issues, a faulty tail light switch, or problems with the socket.
How do I know if my tail light fuse is blown?
Check the fuse box for the tail light fuse. If the metal strip inside the fuse is broken, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.
Can I drive with a broken tail light?
Driving with a broken tail light is illegal and unsafe. You risk getting pulled over and fined, and it increases the chance of an accident.
How much does it cost to fix tail lights?
The cost can vary depending on the issue. Replacing a bulb or fuse is relatively inexpensive, while more complex electrical repairs can be more costly.
How often should I check my tail lights?
It’s a good practice to check your tail lights at least once a month. Regular checks can help you catch issues early and ensure your lights are always functioning correctly.