Dodge Ram Brake Lights Not Working: How to Troubleshoot?

Driving a Dodge Ram with faulty brake lights can be risky. It is illegal and a threat to safety for you and others on the road. It needs immediate fixation, but troubleshooting the brake light issue is difficult. Without any technical knowledge, it’s impossible. Yes, impossible, but do you want to know how to troubleshoot Dodge Ram brake lights not working?

There could be several reasons for the brake light problem in your Dodge Ram. Here is the list of the most common reasons:

1. Burnt out bulbs
2. Blown fuses
3. Brake light switch failure
4. Wiring issues
5. Bad relay

If you can solve these issues, your dodge ram brake lights will return to action mode. So let’s start to reveal how you can solve each process successfully. 

Dodge Ram Brake Lights Not Working: Problems & Solutions

Problem 1: Burnt Bulb

The Burnt bulb is the most occurring cause of brake lights problems in dodge ram. If the bulb is burnt, you cannot illuminate the brake lights when you press the brake. Fixing the burnt bulb is easy but a bit tricky. 

Solution 1:

1. Remove the brake lights cover by unscrewing its screws
2. Now check for the bulbs, check the bulb, and ensure it is broken or burnt.
3. If it is burnt, you must replace it with a new one. I recommend Alla Lighting 2800lm T25 Wedge 3156 3157 LED Bulbs. It is a 6000 lumens excellent quality bulb set compatible with all Dodge Ram models.
4. Remove the burnt bulb and install the new bulb in its place.
5. Ensure the bulb is secure; check the bulb by pressing the brake pad.
6. If it works, put the covers back, you have done your job.

Problem 2: Blown Fuses

A blown fuse can be the culprit for the faulty dodge ram brake lights. A blown fuse cannot power the bulbs, so you cannot illuminate brake lights. 

Blown fuses are also the most common cause for ford ranger and Chevy trucks‘ brake lights not working.

Solution 2:

1. Switch off your Dodge Ram.
2. Check for the fuse box in the engine compartment or under the dashboard
3. Carefully read the diagram on the fuse box and locate the fuse for the brake lights
4. Once located, check it and make sure it is okay. If it is damaged, you will need a replacement.
5. Remove the fuse and install the new fuse of the same amperage.
6. Test the brake lights to ensure they are working fine.

Problem 3: Brake Light Switch Failure

A faulty brake light switch is another common cause of brake lights problem in different vehicle models. So, you may have a problem with brake lights when experiencing brake lights issues in Dodge Ram.

A brake light switch can also be the culprit for the Honda Accord brake light not working and the Honda Civic brake lights won’t turn off.

Solution 3:

1. Locate the brake light switch under the brake pedal.
2. Check the switch for any damage or lose connections.
3. If the switch is damaged, replace it with a new one. I recommend GM Genuine Parts D1539J Brake Light Switch. It is excellent performing and compatible with many vehicles and models.
4. Adjust the switch position if it does not make proper contact with the pedal.
5. Once done, test the brake lights to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Problem 4: Wiring Issues

If you have issues with the wiring system of your Dodge Ram, you may experience 

brake lights not working. Check for broken or burnt wires and fix the issue to eliminate the problem.

Solution 4:

1. Remove the bulb and check the wires behind the bulb socket
2. Once the wires are opened, look for them; repair them if broken.
3. If the wire is burnt, you will need to replace the wire
4. Once the wire is replaced, test the bulb to see if it is okay. Reinstall everything; otherwise, go for the next problem.

Problem 5: Bad Relay

A relay is essential for proper power to brake lights. If the relay is bad, the brake lights do not work. So, you have to check for the relay when experiencing brake light issues. 

Solution 5:

1. Locate the fuse box for the relay under the hood or dash of your Dodge Ram.
2. Identify the relay that controls the brake lights. You can take help from the diagram on the fuse box.
3. Check the relay and ensure it is okay. Otherwise, you will need a replacement.
4. Remove the faulty relay by pulling it straight out of the socket.
5. Insert a new relay of the same type into the socket.
6. Test the brake lights to confirm that they are now working.

Why Do My Dodge Ram Brake Lights Stay On?

The most common reasons for Dodge Ram brake lights staying on include a faulty brake light switch, a damaged brake pedal sensor, or a wiring issue. It is recommended to check for all possible reasons to fix the problem.

Solution:

1. Check the brake light switch for any damage or malfunction.
2. Inspect the brake pedal sensor for any signs of damage or wear.
3. Check the wiring for any signs of damage or lose connections.
4. If any of the above issues are found, replace or repair the faulty component as necessary.

What Are The Causes Of Dodge Ram Brake Light Flashing?

Several reasons exist for a Dodge Ram brake light flashing, such as low brake fluid levels, a faulty brake light switch, a damaged brake line, or a malfunctioning ABS module. Diagnosing the problem and fixing it immediately for safety reasons is essential.

Solution:

1. First, Check the brake fluid level and refill it if necessary. 
2. Inspect the brake light switch and replace it if faulty. 
3. Check the brake lines for damage and repair or replace them as needed.  
4. Check the ABS module for malfunction and repair or replace it as needed.
5. Clear any error codes from the vehicle’s computer system. Test the brake light function to ensure it is working correctly.

How to Reset Brake Light On Dodge Ram 1500?

To reset the brake light on a Dodge Ram 1500, follow these steps:

1. Switch on the vehicle and ensure the brake pedal is free
2. Then locate the diagnostic port under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
3. Connect a diagnostic scanner to the port and turn it on.
4. Select the “Reset” option on the scanner.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset the brake light.
6. Once complete, turn off the scanner and disconnect it from the port.
7. Start the vehicle again and check if the brake light has turned off.

Why Do My 1998 Dodge Ram Tail Lights Not Working?

There could be several reasons why your 1998 Dodge Ram tail lights are not working. Some of the major causes are a blown fuse, a faulty wiring connection, or a burnt bulb.

Solution:

1. Check the fuse box under the dashboard on the driver’s side to see if any fuses have blown.
2. Replace any blown fuses with new ones.
3. Inspect the wiring connections in the tail light assembly for any signs of damage or corrosion.
4. If the wiring connections are faulty, repair or replace them as needed.
5. Check the tail light bulbs to ensure they are not burnt out.
6. Replace any burnt bulbs with new ones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Conclusion

Troubleshooting faulty brake lights on your Dodge Ram can be relatively simple. Check for the brake light switch, fuses, bulbs, and wiring connections. Once you identify the cause, fix it accordingly. If you are not confident in your skills, do not try this. It is better to call a professional mechanic to fix the problem.