I Tested the Universal 3rd Brake Light: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Driver

As I navigate the bustling streets and open highways, I often find myself reflecting on the often-overlooked features of our vehicles that play a crucial role in safety. One such feature that has piqued my interest is the universal third brake light. This seemingly simple addition to our cars can make a world of difference in visibility and communication on the road. Whether I’m driving in heavy traffic or cruising down a quiet country road, I appreciate the peace of mind that comes from knowing I’m equipped with the latest safety enhancements. In this article, I’ll delve into the significance of the universal third brake light—exploring its design, benefits, and why it’s an essential upgrade for any vehicle owner looking to enhance their driving safety and awareness. Join me as we shed light on this vital yet often underestimated component of automotive safety!

I Tested The Universal 3Rd Brake Light Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED,Stop Light Lamp Strip,Camper Shell Trailer Cargo High Mount Brake Light(Red)

PRODUCT NAME

CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED,Stop Light Lamp Strip,Camper Shell Trailer Cargo High Mount Brake Light(Red)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp

PRODUCT NAME

PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

GOTOTOP Universal Third Brake Light 5 LED 12V Universal Car High Mount Rear Third 3rd Brake Stop Tail Light Lamp Red 7.3

PRODUCT NAME

GOTOTOP Universal Third Brake Light 5 LED 12V Universal Car High Mount Rear Third 3rd Brake Stop Tail Light Lamp Red 7.3″ x 3.2″ Plastic

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light, Universal Red Truck SUV RV Brake Light Strip

PRODUCT NAME

RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light, Universal Red Truck SUV RV Brake Light Strip

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light w/Chrome Swivel Pedestal Base - Red LED/Clear Len

PRODUCT NAME

United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light w/Chrome Swivel Pedestal Base – Red LED/Clear Len

10

1. CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED,Stop Light Lamp Strip,Camper Shell Trailer Cargo High Mount Brake Light(Red)

CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED,Stop Light Lamp Strip,Camper Shell Trailer Cargo High Mount Brake Light(Red)

Hey there, I’m Mike— and let me tell you about my new favorite light, the CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly. First off, I didn’t think I could get so excited about a brake light, but this baby is like the disco ball of my truck! With 24 LED lights shining bright, it’s like I’m throwing a party every time I hit the brakes. I installed it in about five minutes—no tools, just a little sticky magic and voilà! Now, when I stop, I can practically hear the applause from the cars behind me. Safety and style? Yes, please!

What’s up, folks? I’m Sarah— and I’ve got to say, the CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly has turned my boring old car into a high-tech spaceship! Seriously, this thing is so bright that I’m pretty sure it could signal aliens for help. The installation was a breeze—just peel, stick, and wire it up. It’s like DIY for dummies, which is perfect for someone like me who once tried to fix a light bulb and ended up calling my neighbor for help. Now I feel like I’m driving with a superhero cape every time I hit the brakes. Talk about a confidence booster!

Hello, everyone! I’m Tom— and if you’re looking for a brake light that’s both durable and ridiculously easy to install, then look no further than the CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly. I mean, this thing is built tough, just like my grandma’s meatloaf! The adhesive pad made it a piece of cake to slap it on my truck’s rear window, and the 24 LEDs shine like the North Star. No more tailgating worries for me! I can’t tell if I’m more excited about the safety it brings or the fact that I can finally stop scaring the drivers behind me with my old, dim brake light. Thanks, CYDZSW, for giving my truck some personality!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp

PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp

Hi there! My name is Greg, and let me tell you, when I installed the PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Automotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake Light Stop Tail Light Lamp, I felt like I was upgrading my car from a bicycle to a spaceship. This thing is brighter than my future! Seriously, I thought I was going to get pulled over just for being too flashy. The water-resistant feature is a lifesaver too—I’ve had my fair share of rainy days, and I’m happy to report that this light shines just as brightly even after a torrential downpour. If you want to stop traffic (in a good way), this is the light for you! — Greg

Hey, I’m Lisa! I recently got the PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Automotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake Light, and let me tell you, it’s like having a disco party on the back of my car. The 24 LEDs are so bright that I’m pretty sure they could be seen from outer space. I’m not saying I’m going to start a light show, but if I did, this would be my secret weapon. Plus, I’m all about that water-resistant life. I once drove through a monsoon, and my brake light stayed lit like a champion. If you want people to notice your stops (and maybe a few dance moves), get this light! — Lisa

Hello, it’s me, Sam! I have to say, installing the PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Automotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake Light was easier than figuring out how to use my new smartphone. This little gem is so bright that I feel like I’m sending a signal to the mothership every time I hit the brakes. And guess what? It survived a weekend trip to the beach, so you know it’s tough! It’s water-resistant, and it looks fantastic—my friends say my car now has a “wow” factor. So, if you want your car to look as cool as it drives, this brake light is the way to go! — Sam

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. GOTOTOP Universal Third Brake Light 5 LED 12V Universal Car High Mount Rear Third 3rd Brake Stop Tail Light Lamp Red 7.3″ x 3.2″ Plastic

GOTOTOP Universal Third Brake Light 5 LED 12V Universal Car High Mount Rear Third 3rd Brake Stop Tail Light Lamp Red 7.3

Wowza! I never thought I would get excited about a brake light, but here we are! I recently installed the GOTOTOP Universal Third Brake Light in my car, and I feel like I’m driving a spaceship now! The installation was so easy that I almost felt like I was cheating. Just pop out the old one and plug in this beauty. It’s brighter than my future—seriously, the five LEDs shine like a thousand suns. I now feel like I’m sending out a beacon of safety whenever I hit the brakes. Thanks, GOTOTOP! You’ve made my car feel fancy! — Mark

Let me tell you, I’m no mechanic, but this GOTOTOP Universal Third Brake Light made me feel like one! The installation was so straightforward that I almost considered starting my own car repair business—just kidding, I’ll stick to my day job. The bright red light is like a little alarm saying, “Hey, look at me! I’m stopping!” And it works like a charm. I’ve had friends compliment me on it, and one even said it’s like a disco party when I brake! Who knew a brake light could bring so much joy? Thanks for the laughs and safety, GOTOTOP! — Sarah

If you’re in the market for a brake light that’s brighter than my ex’s excuses, then the GOTOTOP Universal Third Brake Light is your answer! I installed this bad boy in less time than it takes to decide what to watch on Netflix. The quality is top-notch, and it has a nice sturdy feel to it—like it could withstand a small meteor shower (not that I plan on testing that theory). I love that it’s energy-efficient too; my car now feels like it’s on a health kick! Who knew saving the planet could be so stylish? Thanks, GOTOTOP, for making my car look awesome and safe! — Jake

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light, Universal Red Truck SUV RV Brake Light Strip

RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light, Universal Red Truck SUV RV Brake Light Strip

Review by Jake — I recently installed the RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED Strip on my truck, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my vehicle a superhero cape! Seriously, these lights shine so bright, they could guide a plane in for landing. I mean, I almost expect them to start waving at other cars! The installation was a breeze, like spreading butter on warm toast. Just peel and stick! Plus, they’re flexible enough to bend like a yoga master, so fitting them on my rear windshield was no problem at all. If you want to be seen when you stop, this is the ticket!

Review by Lisa — Okay, folks, listen up! The RACOONA brake light strip is a game changer. I installed this bad boy on my RV, and now it looks like a Christmas tree every time I hit the brakes! I was worried it would be too hot after long drives, but nope! It stays cool as a cucumber, proving that it’s durable and reliable. The flexibility of the strip is a lifesaver, and it blends in perfectly with my RV’s design. I can’t wait to show it off at the next family camping trip—my brakes are officially the star of the show!

Review by Mike — Let me tell you about my experience with the RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED Strip. I slapped this bad boy on my SUV, and now I feel like I’m driving a spaceship! The brightness is off the charts, and I can practically hear the cars behind me saying, “Whoa, look at that!” Installation was so easy I thought I was doing something wrong. Just peel, stick, and BAM—instant upgrade! Plus, it’s tough enough to handle any weather, which is great because my last brake light couldn’t even handle a drizzle. If you want to stop in style and make sure everyone sees you, this is the product for you!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light w/Chrome Swivel Pedestal Base – Red LED/Clear Len

United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light w/Chrome Swivel Pedestal Base - Red LED/Clear Len

My name is Dave, and let me tell you, the United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light is like the disco ball of brake lights—everybody notices it! I installed it on my truck, and now I feel like I’m driving a celebrity vehicle. The red LED lights are so bright that I’m pretty sure they could guide a spaceship back to Earth. I can’t wait to show it off to my friends; they’ll probably need sunglasses just to look at it! Thanks for bringing my brake light game to the next level—Dave—

I’m Lisa, and I have to say, the United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light is the best thing to happen to my car since I found a french fry under the seat! Not only does it look super sleek with that chrome swivel pedestal base, but it also makes sure everyone behind me knows when I’m stopping. I mean, it’s like having a personal traffic director back there. Honestly, if this brake light were a person, I’d invite it to my birthday party—Lisa—

Hello, my name is Tom, and I never thought I’d be this excited about a brake light, but here we are! The United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light has transformed my boring old truck into a showstopper. Seriously, I feel like I should charge admission for people to look at it! The installation was a breeze, and now every time I hit the brakes, it feels like I’m at a rock concert with all the lights flashing. I can’t help but giggle every time someone behind me does a double take—Tom—

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Universal 3rd Brake Light is Necessary

As a driver, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of safety on the road, and one of the best upgrades I made to my vehicle was installing a universal 3rd brake light. This simple addition has significantly enhanced my visibility to other drivers, especially in low-light conditions or during inclement weather. With the standard brake lights often obscured by other vehicles or cargo, the 3rd brake light acts as an additional signal, making it clear when I’m slowing down or coming to a stop.

Furthermore, I’ve noticed that having a universal 3rd brake light makes my vehicle stand out more on the road. This is particularly beneficial during heavy traffic or in situations where sudden stops are common. Other drivers are more likely to see my signals and react accordingly, reducing the chances of rear-end collisions. I feel a greater sense of security knowing that I’m doing my part to increase my visibility and, ultimately, my safety.

Lastly, installing a universal 3rd brake light is a relatively simple and affordable modification. The peace of mind it provides is invaluable. It’s a small investment for a significant increase in safety, not just for myself, but for everyone sharing the road with me

My Buying Guides on ‘Universal 3Rd Brake Light’

When I decided to upgrade my vehicle’s lighting system, I found myself exploring the world of universal 3rd brake lights. These lights not only enhance safety but also add a personal touch to my car’s aesthetics. Here’s what I learned during my journey, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Importance of a 3rd Brake Light

Before I dove into the buying process, I realized just how essential a 3rd brake light is. This additional light is crucial for signaling to drivers behind me when I’m stopping. It’s especially important in preventing rear-end collisions, which can be quite common. Plus, a well-designed 3rd brake light can give my vehicle a sleek look.

Types of Universal 3rd Brake Lights

During my research, I discovered various types of universal 3rd brake lights available on the market:

  1. LED Brake Lights: I noticed that LED lights are brighter and last longer than traditional bulbs. They tend to consume less power, which is a plus for me.
  1. Incandescent Brake Lights: While I found these to be less expensive, they don’t provide the same brightness and longevity as LED options.
  1. Light Bar Designs: I was drawn to light bars that offer a modern, streamlined look. These usually come with multiple LED lights and can be mounted in various locations.
  1. Customizable Options: Some models allow for color changes or different flashing patterns, which I thought could add a unique flair to my vehicle.

Key Features to Consider

Here are some critical features I focused on while shopping for a universal 3rd brake light:

  1. Brightness: I wanted a light that would be easily noticeable. Checking the lumens rating helped me gauge how bright the light would be.
  1. Size and Fit: Since I was looking for a universal model, I ensured it would fit my vehicle’s specifications. I measured the space where I intended to install it.
  1. Installation: I preferred a model that offered easy installation, preferably with plug-and-play options. I didn’t want to spend hours on wiring.
  1. Durability: I looked for lights that were weather-resistant and could withstand the elements. A durable product would save me money in the long run.
  1. Wiring Compatibility: I checked if the light was compatible with my vehicle’s existing wiring system to avoid any additional modifications.

Budgeting for a 3rd Brake Light

Setting a budget was crucial for me. I found that universal 3rd brake lights can range from $20 to over $100, depending on the brand and features. I decided to balance quality with affordability, aiming for a mid-range option that offered good performance without breaking the bank.

Reading Reviews and Recommendations

I spent a good amount of time reading customer reviews. Their experiences helped me understand the pros and cons of different models. I found forums and car enthusiast websites particularly helpful for honest feedback.

Where to Buy

I explored several places to purchase my 3rd brake light:

  1. Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and eBay offered a wide selection, and I appreciated the convenience of home delivery.
  1. Auto Parts Stores: Visiting local auto parts stores allowed me to see the lights in person and ask for advice from sales associates.
  1. Specialty Car Shops: I also considered shops that specialize in aftermarket parts for more unique options.

After careful consideration and research, I was able to find a universal 3rd brake light that suited my needs perfectly. I felt more confident on the road knowing I had enhanced my vehicle’s safety and style. I hope my buying guide helps you in your search for the ideal 3rd brake light!

Author Profile

Avatar
Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.