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What are tail lights?
I know there’s a difference between tail lights and brake lights, but could you explain exactly what tail lights are?
Lindsey Hoover · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
What are tail lights? This is a great question! Tail lights are the red lights located at the rear of your vehicle—they activate whenever you turn on your headlights.
Tail lights are typically inactive during the day, and that’s because we tend to drive without our headlights on unless conditions dictate otherwise.
They aren’t as bright as your vehicle’s brake lights, but they illuminate when driving in certain conditions, like heavy rain. Tail lights play a crucial role in alerting other drivers of your presence on the road when visibility is compromised.
Below are a few indications that your tail lights need replacing:
- Burnt tail light bulb
- Failure for tail lights to illuminate when headlights are on
- Brake lights won’t turn on when braking
We suggest having your tail light bulbs replaced every other time you go in for an oil change—this can help you avoid an unwanted ticket from the police for a burnt-out bulb.
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