How To Wire Brake Lights And Turn Signals Together

How to Wire Brake Lights and Turn Signals Together: A Comprehensive Guide

Wiring brake lights and turn signals together might seem daunting, but with a clear understanding of the process and the right tools, it's a manageable task. This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring your safety and the proper functioning of your vehicle's lighting system.

Understanding the Basics: Brake Lights vs. Turn Signals

Before diving into the wiring, let's clarify the functions:

• Brake Lights: These illuminate brightly when the brake pedal is pressed, warning drivers behind you that you're slowing down or stopping. They require a high-intensity light.

• Turn Signals (Indicators): These flash sequentially to indicate a change in direction. They require a lower intensity light that flashes.

Essential Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:

• Wiring Harness: A pre-made harness specifically designed for brake lights and turn signals simplifies the process considerably.
• Soldering Iron and Solder: For creating secure and durable connections. (Alternatively, you can use crimp connectors, but soldering offers superior reliability.)
• Electrical Tape: To insulate and protect your wiring connections.
• Wire Strippers/Cutters: To prepare the wires for connection.
• Multimeter (optional): To test the circuit and ensure correct wiring.
• Test Light (optional): Useful for checking power at different points in the circuit.
• Appropriate Bulbs: Make sure you're using bulbs with the correct wattage and socket type for both brake lights and turn signals.
• Diagram: A wiring diagram specific to your vehicle is crucial.

Step-by-Step Wiring Process

This guide provides a general overview. Always consult your vehicle's wiring diagram for precise locations and wire colors.

1. Disconnect the Battery: This is the most crucial safety step. Disconnecting the negative terminal prevents accidental shorts and electrical shocks.

2. Locate the Wiring: Identify the wires for your brake lights and turn signals. This is often found in the rear of your vehicle near the taillight assemblies.

3. Prepare the Wires: Carefully strip the insulation from the ends of the wires using your wire strippers. Be precise to avoid damaging the wire itself.

4. Connect the Brake Lights: Connect the brake light wire to the appropriate terminal on your light fixture. This usually involves a higher gauge wire to handle the higher current draw.

5. Connect the Turn Signals: Connect the turn signal wires (left and right) to their respective terminals. These wires are typically thinner than the brake light wire.

6. Creating the Combined Circuit (Using a Relay): This is where a relay is extremely helpful, especially if you're working with a 12V system. A relay prevents excessive current draw from the turn signal circuit and ensures correct operation of both functions.

* The relay will take the smaller current signal from the turn signal circuit and switch a larger current for the brake light circuit.  This ensures the turn signal still works correctly and doesn’t overload the circuit.

7. Secure Connections: Once all connections are made, carefully solder each joint. Apply electrical tape to each connection to ensure insulation and durability.

8. Test Your Wiring: Reconnect the battery. Test the brake lights by pressing the brake pedal and the turn signals by activating the turn signal stalk. Ensure everything works as expected – both flashing turn signals and the bright brake lights when the brake pedal is depressed. Use your multimeter to confirm voltage and continuity if needed.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Lights not working at all: Double-check your battery connection and all wire connections. Use a test light to confirm power is reaching the lights.
• Dim brake lights: You might have the wrong wattage bulbs, a poor connection, or a problem with the brake light switch.
• Turn signals not flashing: Verify your flasher unit is functional. Check for faulty bulbs or wiring issues.

Safety First!

Remember, working with car electrical systems involves the risk of electrical shock. Always disconnect the battery before starting any work. If you are uncomfortable working with car electrical systems, seek professional help.

This guide provides a general framework. Always refer to your vehicle's specific wiring diagram for accurate instructions. By following these steps carefully and prioritizing safety, you can successfully wire your brake lights and turn signals together.