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Prius break lights dim?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Katya S, Sep 25, 2018.

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  1. Katya S

    Katya S Junior Member

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    I tried looking for the same issue on here but couldn't find it, so sorry if this is a repeat thread.

    Basically, I realized that both my break lights on my 2005 became dim at the same time (while I think the little middle light on top works fine). Upon closer inspection it looks like the middle of the 6 little LEDs on both is out. Is this an electrical issue or do I need to order replacements asap?

    I will go to a mechanic, but wanted to ask in case this exact situation happened to anyone already.
     
    #1 Katya S, Sep 25, 2018
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  2. ericbecky

    ericbecky Hybrid Battery Hero

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    They often do stop working over time, so maybe it is time for replacement.

    The LEDs are not separately replaceable. The entire tail light assembly must be removed. Ot sounds like a big job, but it's actually a beginner level job.

    If you have a few tools (3/8 Socket wrench, 10mm deep well socket) you can replace them in under 30 minutes.
     
    #2 ericbecky, Sep 26, 2018
  3. Nortnarg

    Nortnarg Prius~To go before

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    I would say that your brake lights are taking a break.
     
    #3 Nortnarg, Sep 28, 2018
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  4. bisco

    bisco cookie crumbler

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    i would say your break lights are putting the brakes on.
     
    #4 bisco, Sep 28, 2018
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  5. Usle

    Usle Active Member

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    Any sign of rodents in or around the car, a chewed on wire touching something parisitic, not a ground, but something?
    Finding a used set might save some cash, well, if everyone had dim lights after a few years it would be a problem, but, none have indicated it.
     
    #5 Usle, Sep 28, 2018
  6. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    Something parasitic?
     
    #6 edthefox5, Sep 28, 2018
  7. Paul Schenck

    Paul Schenck Active Member

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    I just realized mine have this problem they work though they are dim. I’ll post what I find this weekend.


    iPhone ?
     
    #7 Paul Schenck, Sep 29, 2018
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