My friend has a '04 TL, and his 3rd brake light (top/middle of the rear windshield) is acting funny. The LED's on the left half of the light don't come on at all when he brakes. The LED's on the right half of the light only come on very dimly when he brakes.

What can be the problem? Any help is appreciated. TIA!

 

I had a similar problem and a replacement brake light switch fixed it. I think it cost about 12 bucks and took almost a minute to install.

 

I second MisterFubar. Although, usually when it's the brake light switch, we flat out see the 3rd brake light totally dim, not just sections. But, as he mentioned, brake switch is a lot cheaper then the 3rd brake light assembly, so I would say that's the way to go

 

Thanks, fellas! I'll let him know.

 

Ok. Next questions:

1. Where can he buy the brake light switch?
2. How/ does he install it?

TIA!

 

You should be able to buy it at just about any dealership or any of the online acura parts dealers. I think I got mine fromm www.acuraoemparts.com

Disconnect the old one, and rotate it about 30 degrees and it should pull right out of the collar. Push the in the new one, rotate it to lock it in and slide the connector back on making sure it locks into place.

I don't remember having to remove any of the panels to get to it, but you may want to take the one out that runs right above the pedals to give you a little more room to work.

 

hmm.. sounds more like the connection needs to be checked.. all the symptoms of brake switch were intermittent light on & off not just 1/2 light on, half dim. Its behind the brake pedal and there should be several DIY guides on it.

edit: ^ MF got it..

 

Thanks.

 

G-097.