How to Test Your Tail Lights
The easiest way to check that your tail lights and brake lights work is to ask someone else to help you. Ask a friend, family member, or neighbor to press the brake pedal while watching the lights, or to keep an eye on the lights while you press the pedal.
But what if there’s no one around? How to Test Your Tail Lights Yourself:
Garage Door or Wall Method:
1. Park your car with the rear of your car up against a garage door (inside or outside), a wall, or a fence.
2. Turn on your headlights.
3. Get out of your car and look for the red taillight light on the wall.
4. Get back in the driver’s seat, press the brake pedal and look for a brighter red reflection.
Reflective Surface Method:
1. Find a large window or reflective surface in the parking lot.
2. Drive close to the car, leaving enough space for you to get out of your car. 3. Turn on your headlights and look for the taillight reflection.
4. Press the brake pedal and look for the reflected brake light.
Camera method:
1. Set up your smartphone to record video of the rear of your car.
2. Start recording and get in your car.
3. Turn on your headlights, press the brake pedal, and engage your turn signals.
4. It also helps to say it out loud when you press the brake pedal.
5. Watch the video to see the function of all the lights.