How to Fix Chevrolet Colorado Brake Light Fault - DIY Guide

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

Hey, gearheads and truck enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into a common issue with the Chevrolet Colorado - brake lights not working. Don’t worry, I've got you covered with a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and fix this problem. Let's roll!

Step 1: Check the Fuse

First things first, let’s talk fuses. A blown fuse is often the culprit behind malfunctioning brake lights. So, pop open the fuse box and locate the brake light fuse. Don't just eyeball it – even a fuse that looks fine can be faulty. The best approach? Replace it. Fuses are cheap and easy to swap out.

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Step 2: Inspect the Bulbs

Next up, bulbs. If it's only one side that's out, it's likely a bulb issue. But even if both sides are out, don’t rule this out. Bulbs are inexpensive and simple to replace. Remember, like fuses, bulbs can look fine but be bad.

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• 2008 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2009 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2010 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2011 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2012 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2017 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2018 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;
• 2019 Chevrolet Colorado Light Bulb;

Step 3: The Brake Pedal Switch

If the fuse and bulbs are in good shape, the next suspect is the brake pedal switch. This little guy tells your truck's brain (the BCM) to light up those brake lights. If it's faulty, no signal, no lights. Replacing the switch isn’t rocket science, but it does require some attention.

Step 4: Installation Tips

When installing a new brake pedal switch, make sure you get the right part. Hold the brake pedal in the rearward position (towards you) while installing the switch. Rotate it clockwise until it clicks. If it pops out when you tap the brake, it's not installed correctly. Double-check the alignment and the plastic retainer - that's often the issue.

Useful Tips:

• Always Change in Pairs: If one bulb goes, the other is likely not far behind. Replace both to save future headaches.
• Clean Contacts: Use a pencil eraser to clean the contacts on both the socket and the bulbs. This can prevent a lot of issues.
• Regular Checks: Regularly check your brake lights (and all lights) to avoid being caught off-guard.

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What If It's Not Fixed?

If you've gone through all these steps and your brake lights still aren't working, it's time for a deeper dive. It could be a wiring issue or something more complex. In such cases, consider getting professional help.

Final Thoughts

Remember, working brake lights are crucial for safety – not just for you but for everyone on the road. Regular maintenance and checks can prevent most issues. And, if you encounter a problem, don’t hesitate to roll up your sleeves and tackle it. Safe driving, folks!

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

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