Are Tail Lights and Brake Lights the Same Bulb?

Tail lights have a few lights that serve different purposes. Brake lights are lights on a tail light that alert other drivers when you are pressing the brake pedal to slow down. The tail lights are lights that illuminate when the headlights are turned on to create visibility for drivers behind you during the night or adverse weather conditions.

What Are Brake Lights?

Brake lights are lights that illuminate when the driver presses the brake pedal. They alert other drivers that you are braking to increase everyone’s safety on the road. They are usually brighter than the tail lights because of this, and include the third brake light.

What Are Tail Lights?

Tail lights are lights found at the rear of the vehicle that illuminate when the headlights are on. Just as the headlights make your vehicle visible to others on the opposite side of the road, the tail lights make your vehicle visible to cars behind you. Sometimes the tail lights also illuminate and act as the parking lights depending on the vehicle.

On many vehicles, the tail light housing holds the bulb sockets for the tail lights, brake lights, parking lights, and corner or side marker lights (also known as blinkers).

How to Test Tail Lights

The easiest way to test your tail lights is to enlist help. Someone can confirm which lights are working by observing each light as they are activated.

If your tail light is cracked or broken and needs to be replaced, check out the direct-fit parts we have available for your vehicle and install it yourself with the help of our how-to videos.