Brake light constantly burning out - Automotive Wiring and Electrical


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Brake light constantly burning out

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markt20010
New User

Dec 14, 2006, 5:42 PM

Post #1 of 5 (3075 views)

Brake light constantly burning out	Sign In

I have a 2002 Pontiac Montana on which the right rear brake light keeps burning out (within a couple weeks of being replaced). What could cause this?

Thank!

Markt
MarkT

Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Tom Greenleaf profile image

Dec 14, 2006, 7:26 PM

Post #2 of 5 (3071 views)

Re: Brake light constantly burning out	Sign In

Don't hit the brakes!! TOTALLY JUST KIDDING!!

Probablably a problem with the socket and because it last a while I don't think you'll know without just repacing it. Might be tough new and used should be an ok try for that. Make good connections with wiring and you won't be back there again, T

steve01832
Veteran
steve01832 profile image

Dec 15, 2006, 3:12 AM

Post #3 of 5 (3069 views)

Re: Brake light constantly burning out	Sign In

Also, take a look at the lens. If you see any water droplets inside the lens then the seal is bad and the moisture is causing problems. Sometimes a bead of clear silicone fixes it up if you can pinpoint where the seal has failed.

Steve

DanD
Veteran / Moderator
DanD profile image

Dec 15, 2006, 4:44 AM

Post #4 of 5 (3067 views)

Re: Brake light constantly burning out	Sign In

Make sure that the replacement bulbs that you’re using are of the proper part number.
There are a number of different part numbers; the bulbs all look the same; they will fit the socket and light up, but they’re not the same internally.
The wattage of the bulb is where the difference is; higher wattage bulbs runs hotter and like anything else if it gets to hot it will burn itself out or possibly melt the socket.
If it is the proper part number that you’re using and the things that Tom and Steve have suggested are ok you could try a long life bulb. It’ll have the same numbering but will also have the lettering LL (long life) or HD (heavy duty) at the end of the part number. These bulbs are usually found on truck and trailer applications.
Dan.

Canadian "EH"

markt20010
New User

Dec 15, 2006, 3:29 PM

Post #5 of 5 (3058 views)

Re: Brake light constantly burning out	Sign In

Thank you to everyone who responded. The socket does look a bit melted - I wonder if, at some point, the inappropriate bulb was used. I'll probably try a "LL" bulb first. If that doesn't help I'll try replacing the socket(s). Thanks again!

MarkT
MarkT

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