Replace brake light bulb - 2009 Dodge Challenger

Dull or Dim Brake Light Repair: If your car has a dull or dim brake light it is dangerous to you and other drivers. A dim brake light is a mystery to most people because the bulb is working, just not correctly. First confirm a new and correct brake light bulb has been installed. Next, turn the ignition key to the "on" position and have a helper depress the brake pedal. With the bulb installed touch a grounded test light to the outer bulb holder ring. If the bulb brightness changes the bulb socket ground has high resistance and needs to be repaired or replaced.

Flickering Brake Light Bulb Repair: A flickering brake light bulb can be very distracting and annoying. A brake light flickers because the power or ground is being obstructed momentarily. The most common cause for this condition is a loose fitting bulb socket. To check for this condition remove the brake light bulb in question, while a helper hold their foot on the brake pedal move the bulb around slightly in the socket. If the bulb flickers replace or repair the bulb socket as needed to regain proper brake light bulb operation. If the brake light bulb socket tests ok wiggle the brake light fuse and wiring at the brake light bulb socket, brake light switch and turn signal switch (American cars). If the brake light bulb flickers repair the component or wiring as needed.
Preferred Procedure: Always replace brake light bulbs with manufacturers recommend replacement bulbs. If you cannot find the correct replacement bulb part number consult an auto parts store for additional manufacturer information.
Common Problems
When brake light bulbs are replaced with the incorrect bulb causing no or dim brake light operation
If the brake lights stay on continuously it could mean the brake light switch has failed or an adjustment is needed.

Inspect Brake Light Bulb: The number one reason for a brake light operation failure is a failed brake light bulb. To check this condition access the bulb by removing the rear cover located in the trunk or rear compartment. Some cars allow you to remove the entire brake light lens to retrieve the brake light bulb. Once the bulb has been removed inspect the bulb filament. If it looks broken or if the bulb is smoked the bulb needs to be replaced. If you have replaced the bulb but it still doesn't work remove the bulb. With the key in the "on" position have someone hold their foot on the brake pedal and use a grounded test light to carful test the terminals inside the light socket. One of the terminals should illuminate the test light. (Note: Do not touch the outer metal ring that holds the bulb in place for it is grounded and can blow the system fuse if connected to the inner terminals.) If the test light illuminates reinstall the brake light bulb. While the brake pedal is depressed test the outer metal ring that holds the bulb, if power is present the ground lead from the light socket is bad. If the outer ring does not illuminate the bulb has failed and replacement is required.

Scan BCM for Trouble Codes: Some cars are equipped with a body control module or BCM this onboard computer controls and lighting signals and can malfunction not allowing the electrical current to continue to the brake light circuits. This condition is rare but it can happen. If you have performed all of the tests above and all results are positive scan the BCM for trouble codes if no codes are present try replacing the BCM.

Check Brake Light Bulbs: All cars have three brake light bulbs that create the brake light illumination affect. If all of these brake light bulbs fail no brake light operation will occur. I know what you're thinking, you might say all three brake lights at once? But in reality one brake light went out at a time and you did not notice. People only tend to notice something when they almost run into the back of your car to help persuade them to inform you the brake lights aren't working. Remove any of the brake light bulbs to confirm the bulb is ok or burned. After the bulb has been removed inspect the filament and replace if failed. If the brake light bulbs are ok continue to the next step.