mugencivic

I want to get a ctr spoiler with no LED light on it which would eliminate the third brake light on my oem plastic spoiler. I've been told that before a certain year (early 1990's i think) cars didn't have to have third brake lights. Do cars made after this date need a third brake light or is it okay to remove it legally...or do i have to spend the extra $100 to get one with a light?

Cynikal.Mindset

86 didnt have 3rd brake light...everything after that did and I believe they are needed and are an added safety thing for you cuz that 3rd brake light really does make a difference in seeing the brake lights

imported_rbjeepthing

not required by law but definately a good safety precaution

scarlemthug

u only need 1 working brake light.

imported_Team Rukus

actually i thnk it is required by law.

scarlemthug

I asked Jay who is a cop about it and he said you only need 1 working taillight. Its more of a safety thing than a law.

imported_b16turbohatch

after reading all of your answers i asked two cop friends and the third is not required by law but is recommended and you need by law to have a right AND a left brake light working.

Loca_Boo

My third light doesnt show up through my tinting... So I just took it out...

scarlemthug

I was also told you only need 1 working brake light but i believe if one side is gone the cops will give you a warning to fix it .

1990da

mine dont even work. i dont think its illegal.

imported_Sic_Vic

So many answers so many people, just go down to your local police headquarters and ask at the desk, and then when they tell you, ask to see it in writing, most time the laws are up for interpretation.

stock94block

i agree..just go and ask, IMO i dont think you have to have a 3rd brake light, but its still a good idea

spracingsports

so cars with the one on the wing, never came with the interior/above rear seat one???

PULOVR

Lets see, where should I start.....


86 was an optional year for the 3rd light. In 87, it it became mandatory for car manufacturers to put them in.


as for....


To put it simply.......whatever the car came with from factory, is what has to be on the car working.

ie....if the car had 2 brake lights, then both should to be working. If the car had 3 (2 brake and one 3rd), then all 3 should be working.

There are modified hotrods from the early 20's that only came with one brake light. If they are still registered as that original year, then they don't need more than one (because they never had more than one to begin with), but that one light they do have MUST be working. If the car has been re-registered as a hotrod with a curent year of model...ie....a 1912 Model T, but it's been moded with up to date stuff, and then registered as a new hot rod, then it has to abide by the standards set now.......ie...2 brake lights and a 3rd.