Is a blinking third brake light illegal?

The good officer dug into the Vehicle Code and learned that, yes, in California the devices are legal – so long as the brake lights flash no more than four times within four seconds.

How much does it cost to replace a third brake light?

A new third brake light can cost you anywhere between $50 and $250 on parts alone.

Does third brake light have to work to pass MoT?

If it’s fitted and connected it must work. If you disconnect it, it will pass its MoT. The rules state that the benefit of doubt must be given to the presenter (you) so, if it doesn’t work at all, the tester has to prove that it’s connected.

Are cars required to have a 3rd brake light?

Federal law mandates that all vehicles have the third brake light outfitted within the car. Additionally, the third light must be comparable to the other brake lights on the vehicle so that it is not distracting to the drivers behind the vehicle.

Why do some third brake lights flash?

In fact, flashing brake lights are sometimes OE (original equipment) for some car companies. European manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz and Volvo have models that come with brake lights that can flash. The reason for that is that is to create a visual distinction between slowing down and an emergency full stop.

What does it mean when the brake light is blinking?

A red light that flashes on and off could signal low/almost empty brake fluid, but also a serious issue with the brake’s hydraulic system. An expert technician can identify the cause and determine what your braking system needs, whether it’s a brake fluid flush or brake repair.

What is the 3rd brake light called?

safety brake lamp
The Importance of Third Brake Lights Also, called safety brake lamp or high-level brake lamp, the third brake light helps fellow drivers in knowing when you hit the brakes. It is useful when their view of the left and right brake lights is interrupted by other vehicles.

How do you change the third brake light?

Twist the bulb socket at the rear of the housing in a counterclockwise direction and pull it straight out of the housing. Pull the bulb from the socket and insert a new bulb. Replace the lamp housing in the reverse order. Check your owner’s guide for specific directions regarding your pickup’s third brake light.

What year did the third brake light become law?

1986
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) repeated Voevodsky’s experiment on a larger scale, and concluded that center high mounted stop lamps, as the government calls them, reduce accidents and injuries. As a result, in 1986, NHTSA began requiring all new cars to have a third brake light.

Is a stop lamp the same as a brake light?

The AUTO Stop Lamp is a smart brake light that provides added protection for your vehicle, your precious cargo and you. The “AUTO” has two meanings: (1) It’s a brake light for AUTOmobiles and (2) It AUTOmatically lights up when the vehicle slows down [patent pending].

Can I remove my third brake light?

Not having a 3rd brake light is not legal but it is also something you can probably not expect to get a ticket for unless: The police is looking for an excuse to pull you over.

Why do cars have 3rd brake light?

A third brake light provides an extra signal to distracted drivers—and studies confirm that it reduces automobile accidents.