Many car owners find themselves facing the question: “Does Autozone Change Brake Lights?” It’s a common query, especially when you notice a brake light out or your dashboard warning lights illuminate. AutoZone is a well-known auto parts retailer, but understanding the extent of their services, particularly brake light replacement, can save you time and money. This article dives into whether AutoZone changes brake lights, explores DIY options, and when seeking professional help is the best course of action.
Understanding Brake Light Problems and Warning Signs
Brake lights are crucial for vehicle safety, signaling when you’re slowing down or stopping to drivers behind you. A malfunctioning brake light can lead to dangerous situations and potential traffic violations. Recognizing the signs of brake light issues early is essential. Common warning signs include:
- Dashboard Warning Lights: Modern vehicles often have warning lights that indicate brake system malfunctions. These might be labeled “BRAKE,” “ABS,” “Traction Control,” or show a symbol of a car skidding. As one Lexus RX330 owner experienced, multiple brake and traction-related warning lights can appear, initially intermittently but becoming more frequent over time.
- Visually Inspecting Brake Lights: Regularly check your brake lights. Have someone stand behind your vehicle while you press the brake pedal to ensure all brake lights are functioning correctly. Don’t forget to check the third brake light, often located in the center of the rear window or spoiler.
- Erratic Brake Light Behavior: If your brake lights are flickering, dim, or only working intermittently, it’s a sign of a potential problem, often with the bulb or the brake light switch.
Does AutoZone Replace Brake Lights?
AutoZone primarily sells auto parts. While they are a fantastic resource for purchasing replacement bulbs, brake light switches, and other components, AutoZone does not typically offer brake light replacement as a standard service. Their business model focuses on providing parts and advice for DIY repairs.
However, the availability of services can vary by location. Some AutoZone stores may offer bulb installation, often as a courtesy service if you purchase the bulb from them. It’s crucial to call your local AutoZone store directly to inquire about their specific services. Do not assume they will replace your brake light for you.
If AutoZone does not offer brake light replacement, or if you prefer not to do it yourself, you have other options, including:
- Professional Mechanic: A certified mechanic can diagnose and repair any brake light issue, from simple bulb replacement to more complex electrical problems.
- Dealership Service Center: Dealerships, like Lexus dealerships, offer comprehensive service, but as the original article points out, they can be significantly more expensive for parts and labor.
- Other Auto Parts Stores/Service Centers: Some auto parts stores beyond AutoZone, and dedicated service centers like tire shops or general repair shops, may offer brake light replacement services.
DIY Brake Light Switch Replacement: A Case Study on a Lexus RX330
While AutoZone might not change your brake lights directly, they are an excellent place to buy the necessary parts for a DIY repair. The original article provides a detailed account of replacing a brake light switch on a Lexus RX330, highlighting the process and potential cost savings compared to dealership service.
The author experienced intermittent brake and traction warning lights, eventually diagnosed as a faulty brake light switch. They purchased a replacement switch from AutoZone for $22, significantly less than the $150 quoted by a Lexus dealer. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on their experience, which can be helpful if you’re considering a DIY brake light switch replacement on a similar vehicle:
Tools and Parts Needed:
- New Brake Light Switch (compatible with your vehicle – AutoZone can help you find the right part)
- Phillips head screwdriver
- 10mm socket wrench
- 14mm wrench
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Locate the Brake Light Switch: The brake light switch is typically located under the dashboard, near the top of the brake pedal arm. It can be difficult to access.
- Remove the Knee Panel (RX330 Specific): For better access on the RX330 (and potentially other vehicles), remove the knee panel under the steering wheel.
- Locate and remove the Phillips head screw on the bottom right side of the panel (behind a small flap).
- Gently pull back the kick panel near the door sill to access and remove the 10mm bolt on the bottom left side of the knee panel.
- Carefully pry the knee panel straight out, away from the metal plate and airbag. Be aware of wires connected to the panel.
- Access the Brake Light Switch: With the knee panel loosened or removed, you should have better access to the brake light switch. You might need to lie on the floor and look upwards.
- Loosen the Switch Bolt: Use the 14mm wrench to loosen the bolt that secures the brake light switch. Do not remove it completely yet. Loosen it just enough so the switch can rotate.
- Disconnect the Wiring Harness: Rotate the switch to access the “button” on the wiring harness connector. Push the button to release the connector and detach it from the old switch.
- Remove the Old Switch: Unscrew the old brake light switch completely from its socket.
- Install the New Switch: Screw in the new brake light switch into the socket. Aim to screw it in to a similar depth as the old one for initial adjustment.
- Reconnect the Harness: Reattach the wiring harness to the new switch, ensuring it clicks securely into place. This is a crucial step, as a loose connection can cause issues.
- Snug the Bolt: Make the 14mm bolt snug, but don’t fully tighten it yet.
- Test the Switch: Before fully tightening and reassembling, test the brake lights. Start the car and gently press the brake pedal. Check if the brake lights illuminate correctly. Adjust the switch position by screwing it in or out slightly until the brake lights activate properly when the pedal is pressed.
- Final Tightening and Reassembly: Once the brake light switch is adjusted correctly, fully tighten the 14mm bolt. Reinstall the knee panel and any other removed components.
- Final Test: Test the brake lights again to ensure everything is working correctly. Also, check if your car shifts out of “Park” smoothly, as the brake light switch often interacts with the shift interlock system.
When to Seek Professional Help
While DIY brake light switch replacement can save money, it’s not for everyone. Consider seeking professional help if:
- You are uncomfortable working on your car.
- You lack the necessary tools.
- You are unsure about any step in the process.
- The problem is not a simple bulb or switch replacement. If you’ve replaced the bulb and switch and the brake lights still don’t work, there might be a more complex electrical issue requiring professional diagnosis.
- You experience continued warning lights or other brake system problems.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional
The original article highlights a significant cost difference:
- DIY (AutoZone part): $22 for the brake light switch.
- Dealership (Lexus): $150 for the part + $200 for labor = $350 total.
DIY brake light switch replacement can save you hundreds of dollars in parts and labor costs, especially compared to dealership prices. However, factor in your comfort level, time, and potential for complications when making your decision.
Conclusion
While AutoZone doesn’t typically change brake lights as a service, they are your go-to source for parts if you choose the DIY route. Replacing a brake light switch or bulb can be a straightforward repair, potentially saving you significant money. However, always prioritize safety. If you’re unsure about performing the repair yourself, or if you encounter persistent brake light problems, seeking professional help from a qualified mechanic is the best and safest option. Remember to always test your brake lights after any repair to ensure they are functioning correctly for your safety and the safety of others on the road.
