How To Troubleshoot Kia Brake Lights Not Working?

It doesn’t matter if you have a Kia SUV or any other model of car; it’s common that brake lights are essential for safe driving. Every day thousands of collisions are avoided because of brake lights. If your Kia brake lights are not working, then troubleshooting that issue is necessary. Now, the question is how to troubleshoot the Kia brake lights are not working. 

Check for the bulb, signal switch, brake lights fuse, connectors, and electrical grounding. Identify the cause and solve it once you’ve found it. Ensure that the instructions are followed and implemented thoroughly.

However, for a quick solution, you need detailed information. Stay tuned; I will provide you with everything to fix the problems with Kia brake lights.

What Are The Common Causes Of Kia Brake Lights Not Working?

Kia brake lights may stop working due to many reasons. But I have listed the most common causes responsible for brake lights problems.

• Bad Light Bulb
• Faulty Signal Switch
• Faulty Fuse
• Bad Connectors and Socket
• Electrical grounding

You may worry about GMC Sierra brake lights, Also read this: GMC Sierra brake lights not working

How To Troubleshoot Kia Brake Lights Not Working?

Problem 1: Bad Light Bulb

A Burnt bulb can be the culprit for Kia Picanto brake lights not working. It is a simple and quick solution if the bulb is brunt. You can replace a bulb within 5 minutes.

Solution 1:

• You will need a screwdriver and multimeter to check and replace the faulty bulb.
• Remove the lights cover by unscrewing the screws
• Pull out the bulb and check its filament
• If a bulb is broken or burnt, replace it
• Put the faulty bulb aside, install the new one, and put the cover back.

Problem 2: Faulty Brake Light Switch

A faulty brake lights switch is a common problem when brake lights are not working. A brake light switch is in the brake pedal to inform the control unit. If you notice that the brake light switch is faulty, you must replace it.

Solution 2:

• To replace the brake light switch, read the steps carefully.
• Disconnect the battery and identify the faulty switch.
• Then remove the wiring connector from the switch.
• Remove the defective switch from the socket.
• Align the switch and socket holes and lock the switch.
• Now reconnect the battery.

Problem 3: Damaged Fuse

A faulty fuse for brake lights can be the culprit for Kia brake lights not working. 

To fix the problem of a damaged fuse, you need to change the broken fuse. Due to an electrical surge brake light fuse can blow off. You need to identify the correct fuse and replace it with a similar one.

Solution 3:

• Locate the fuse box: The brake light fuse is typically located in the main fuse box; the Kia brake lightbox is under the dashboard.
• Identify the brake light fuse: Refer to the owner’s manual or the fuse diagram inside the box cover to identify the brake light fuse. It will be labeled as “Brake Lights” or something similar.
• Remove the fuse: Use the puller tool to remove the brake light fuse carefully. 
• Inspect the fuse: Check the fuse for any visible damage or burn marks. If the fuse is visibly damaged, it needs to be replaced. You can also use a multimeter to check the fuse. I recommend Innova Auto Ranging Multimeter. It is excellent and easy to operate.
• Replace the fuse: Insert a new fuse of the same amperage as the old one. Ensure the fuse is securely in place and the metal prongs are not bent.

Problem 4: Faulty Socket

There is a great probability of rust or corrosion in the sockets where the light bulbs are installed. If there is corrosion in the socket, replace it or clean it with an electronic spray.

Solution 4:

• Locate the brake light socket on your Kia. It is typically located on the vehicle’s rear, near the brake lights.
• Open the Kia trunk and locate the brake light assembly. 
• Remove the brake light assembly by gently prying it off the trunk lid.
• Once the assembly is removed, you should be able to see the brake light socket. Carefully pull the socket out of the assembly by gently tugging it.
• Once the old socket is removed, insert the new socket into the brake light assembly. I recommend the Dorman brakelight socket. It is long-lasting and easy to install. Ensure the new socket is securely in place and the pins are correctly aligned.

Problem 5: Broken Wire

Your Kia brake lights may not work if you have burnt or broken wires. You will need to fix the problem to get back your brake lights in working.

Solution 5:

• Locate the brake light wiring harness. The brake light wiring harness is typically located near the brake pedal or under the dashboard. It connects the brake pedal switch to the brake lights.
• Check for damage. Inspect the brake light wiring harness for any visible damage, such as frayed wires, broken connectors, or melted insulation. If you find any damage, you must replace the wiring harness.
• Check for loose connections. Check for loose connections between the brake pedal switch and the brake lights. Ensure that the connectors are securely attached and that there is no corrosion on the terminals.
• Finally, check for burnt or broken wires and repair them; otherwise, replace them. Test to confirm the functionality of brake lights.

It may also assist you Honda Civic Brake lights won’t turn off

Why Kia Forte Brake Light Stays On?

There could be a few reasons why the brake light stays on in a Kia Forte:

• Brake switch malfunction
• Wiring issue
• Brake fluid leak
• Brake system malfunction

Is There A Fuse For The Brake Light?

Yes, there is typically a fuse for the brake light in the vehicle’s fuse box. The Kia fuse box is located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.

How To Replace Kia Optima Brake Light?

• Locate the brake light on the back of your Kia Optima
• Open the dashboard lid and locate the brake light assembly
• Remove the brake light assembly by gently pulling it out of the trunk
• Remove the old brake light by gently pulling it out of the assembly
• Insert the new brake light into the assembly by lining up the pins on the light with the holes in the assembly. I recommend brake light assembly by TYC. It is compatible with Kia and easy to install
• Once installed, reassemble everything

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Read this for fixing Audi a4 EPC lights not working- How to fix EPC light on Audi a4.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting Kia brake lights not working can be a simple task if you follow the proper steps. Check the brake light switch, fuses, bulb, socket, and wiring for any damage or defects. If everything appears to be in working order, consider taking your vehicle to a professional mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.