Service and Cost
Typical Cost
1. Replacement Costs: - Parts: The cost of a new brake and tail light assembly can range from $50 to $300 or more per unit. Luxury or high-end vehicles tend to have more expensive parts. - Labor: If you choose to have a professional replace the assembly, labor costs can range from $50 to $150, depending on the shop's rates and the complexity of the installation.
2. Repair Costs: - Minor Repairs: If the issue is minor, such as a blown bulb or a loose connection, the cost might be as low as $10 to $50 for parts and labor. - Complex Repairs: More complex repairs, such as fixing wiring issues or replacing a damaged lens, can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and labor involved.
3. Additional Considerations: - LED vs. Incandescent: LED assemblies tend to be more expensive than incandescent ones but are more durable and energy-efficient. - Aftermarket vs. OEM: Aftermarket parts are often cheaper than Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, but OEM parts are typically guaranteed to fit and function as intended.It's always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different repair shops or parts suppliers to ensure you are getting a fair price. Additionally, checking online forums or guides specific to your vehicle model can provide insights into common issues and solutions related to brake and tail light assemblies.
Typical Service Procedure
1. Bulbs: The most common repair involves replacing burnt-out bulbs. This includes both the brake light bulbs and the tail light bulbs. Depending on the vehicle, these could be incandescent, halogen, or LED bulbs.
2. Lens and Housing: If the lens is cracked or the housing is damaged, it may need to be replaced. The lens covers the bulbs and protects them from the elements, while the housing holds the entire assembly in place.
3. Wiring and Connectors: Damaged or corroded wiring and connectors can cause the lights to malfunction. Repairing or replacing these components ensures proper electrical connectivity.
4. Sockets: The bulb sockets can sometimes become corroded or damaged, necessitating replacement to ensure a secure connection for the bulbs.
5. Gaskets and Seals: These components prevent moisture from entering the assembly. If they are worn or damaged, they should be replaced to prevent water damage to the electrical components.
6. Control Modules: In some modern vehicles, the brake and tail lights are controlled by electronic modules. If these fail, they may need to be repaired or replaced.
7. Mounting Hardware: This includes screws, clips, or brackets that secure the assembly to the vehicle. Damaged or missing hardware should be replaced to ensure the assembly is properly mounted.
8. Testing and Adjustment: After replacement or repair, the lights should be tested to ensure they function correctly. This includes checking the brightness, alignment, and response to brake pedal engagement.
9. Cleaning: The area around the assembly may be cleaned to remove any dirt or debris that could affect the installation or operation of the lights.The specific components and steps involved can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the nature of the issue being addressed. It's always recommended to consult the vehicle's service manual or a professional mechanic for guidance specific to your vehicle.
What is a Brake & Tail Light Assemby and What Does It Do?
The brake and tail light assembly is a crucial component of a vehicle's lighting system, typically located at the rear of the vehicle. It serves multiple functions related to safety and communication with other drivers. Here's a breakdown of its components and functions:
1. Brake Lights: These lights are activated when the driver applies the vehicle's brakes. They are designed to illuminate more brightly than tail lights to signal to drivers behind that the vehicle is slowing down or stopping. This helps prevent rear-end collisions by providing a clear and immediate visual cue.
2. Tail Lights: These lights are activated when the vehicle's headlights are turned on, whether in low-light conditions or at night. Tail lights are less bright than brake lights and are intended to make the vehicle visible from the rear, indicating its presence and width to other drivers.
3. Turn Signals: Often integrated into the assembly, these lights flash on one side of the vehicle to indicate a turn or lane change. They are typically amber or red, depending on regional regulations.
4. Reverse Lights: Also part of the rear lighting system, though not always integrated into the same assembly, these lights illuminate when the vehicle is in reverse gear, signaling to others that the vehicle is backing up.
5. Reflectors: Some assemblies include reflectors that do not emit light but reflect the headlights of other vehicles, enhancing visibility when the vehicle is parked or in low-light conditions.The brake and tail light assembly is designed to be durable and weather-resistant, as it is exposed to the elements. It is typically made of plastic housing with lenses that protect the bulbs or LEDs inside. Modern vehicles often use LED technology for these lights due to their efficiency, brightness, and longevity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. Proper functioning of the brake and tail light assembly is essential for vehicle safety and is often subject to legal requirements and inspections.
Signs its time to change your Brake & Tail Light Assembly
The brake and tail light assembly is crucial for vehicle safety, as it communicates your intentions to other drivers. Signs of failure in this assembly can lead to dangerous situations. Here are some common signs of failure:
1. Non-Functioning Lights: The most obvious sign is when the brake or tail lights do not illuminate. This could be due to a burnt-out bulb, a blown fuse, or an electrical issue.
2. Dim Lights: If the lights are dimmer than usual, it could indicate a problem with the bulb, a poor electrical connection, or a failing alternator that is not supplying enough power.
3. Intermittent Functioning: Lights that work sporadically may suggest a loose connection, a faulty bulb socket, or a wiring issue.
4. Rapid Blinking: If the brake lights blink rapidly, it might be a sign of a burnt-out bulb or a problem with the flasher unit.
5. Warning Light on Dashboard: Many modern vehicles have a dashboard warning light that indicates a problem with the lighting system.
6. Blown Fuses: Frequent blowing of fuses related to the brake and tail lights can indicate an electrical short or overload in the circuit.
7. Corrosion: Corrosion in the bulb socket or connectors can lead to poor electrical contact and light failure.
8. Water Ingress: Moisture inside the light assembly can cause bulbs to fail and may lead to electrical shorts.
9. Cracked or Broken Lens: Physical damage to the lens can allow moisture and debris to enter, affecting the light's performance and visibility.
10. Faulty Brake Light Switch: If the brake lights do not activate when the pedal is pressed, the brake light switch may be faulty.Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent these issues. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address them promptly to ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
