Brake lights not working?

WAYNECAPRICE

MEMBER
2007 KIA RIO
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
33,000 MILES

Both my brake lights are out. Per Auto Parts store it is not the fuse

Monday, November 10th, 2008 AT 9:04 PM

5 Replies

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there,

Check that there is power going into and through the brake light switch when the pedal is pressed, the switch is located at the top of the brake pedal under the dash. This guide can help us

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/brake-lights-not-working

Please run down this guide and report back.

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Tuesday, November 11th, 2008 AT 3:11 AM

BOONEY

MEMBER
1 POST
2003 KIA RIO

Brakes problem
2003 Kia Rio Manual 38600 miles

My tail lights work fine but all three of my brake lights don't work. Sometimes I'll turn the car on and they'll work and then they'll stop and then out of nowhere (while still driving) they'll start working again. Sometimes they'll work for awhile until I hit a bump and they'll stop again. I tried looking under the dash to see if I could notice anything out of place or loose but I wasn't sure what I was looking for or at.

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Saturday, December 5th, 2020 AT 9:55 AM (Merged)

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,867 POSTS

At the top of the brake pedal there is a switch that runs the light. Make sure the switch it tight and making contact with the pedal.

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Saturday, December 5th, 2020 AT 9:55 AM (Merged)

TEDJAN

MEMBER
1 POST
2002 KIA RIO
1.5L
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
99,000 MILES

Found all brake bulbs were out. Thought it would be the brake switch. Also easier job to do. Replaced the switch. Bulbs still not lighting. Okay, opened the rear panels, etc. Etc. Replaced all bulbs. When done, I see that the lift-gate indicator light is lit up on the instrument panel. Now, the hatch is closed. Checked everything I touched three times. No changes. When driving and I apply the brake, dash light goes out. And when the third brake light bulb is out of the socket, then the dash light stays on even if you apply the brake. Maybe somebody knows how to remedy this.

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Saturday, December 5th, 2020 AT 9:55 AM (Merged)

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,867 POSTS

Hi,

It sounds like the ground is being taken away when the 3rd light is installed. What I need you to do is check the ground for the 3rd brake light. It is separate from the rear tail lamps.

If you look at the attached pic, I highlighted the ground I'm referring to. In the schematic, it identifies the location. Check this and let me know what you find.

Also, here is a link you may find helpful. It explains how to check the wiring under different conditions.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

_______________________________

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

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