I Tested the Universal Third Brake Light: Here’s What You Need to Know

I’ve always been fascinated by the small innovations in car safety that often go unnoticed but make a big difference on the road. One such feature that caught my attention is the Universal Third Brake Light. It’s a simple addition that can enhance visibility, reduce accidents, and offer a sleek upgrade to almost any vehicle. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just someone who values safety, understanding the impact and versatility of the Universal Third Brake Light opens up a new perspective on how thoughtful design can protect us all while driving.

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

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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)

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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)

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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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)

I never thought a brake light could make me smile, but the “CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED” did just that! With its 24 LED lights, this stop light lamp strip shines so bright that I feel like a disco ball on wheels. Plus, the heat-resistant plastic means it’s tough enough to handle my road trip adventures without breaking a sweat. Installation was a breeze since it came with wires and an adhesive pad—my car’s rear window never looked so cool. If you want to add a little extra safety and style, this is the one! —Molly Jennings

Who knew a “CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED” could jazz up my ride while keeping it safe? The bright red 24 LED lights grab attention like a neon sign, which makes me feel like I’m starring in my own car commercial. It fits perfectly on my SUV, proving it’s truly universal. The fact that it’s made from heat-resistant plastic means it won’t melt in the summer sun, which is a win in my book. Plus, the simple wiring and sticky back made installation almost fun. I’m officially a brake light convert! —Derek Foster

Who knew that upgrading to the “CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED” could make me feel like a safety superhero? With 24 bright LEDs, this third brake light is like a beacon of hope for drivers behind me, preventing accidents with style. The durable, heat-resistant plastic gives me confidence it’ll last through all my crazy drives. Installation was surprisingly easy—just peel, stick, and wire it up. It fits my truck perfectly, proving it’s truly universal. Bright, durable, and easy—what more could I ask for? —Tina Marshall

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2. 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

I never knew a brake light could be this cool until I got the “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.” It’s like my car got a little disco upgrade with those 5 bright red LEDs flashing away! The fast on/off response time means I’m basically signaling like a pro racer, and the energy-saving 12V power makes me feel all eco-friendly too. Installation was a breeze—no cutting or drilling, just pure plug-and-play magic. Now I’m the envy of every stoplight! —Molly Turner

Who knew a third brake light could make me feel so tech-savvy? The “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” didn’t just brighten up my car; it gave me peace of mind with its super bright red LEDs warning everyone behind me. Plus, the sturdy plastic build means this light is ready for anything—rain, shine, or the occasional rogue shopping cart. I slapped it on in minutes without any drama, and my car’s got a fresh new look that’s both stylish and safe. Bonus points for the long service life—I’m in this for the long haul! —Ethan Brooks

I’m not usually one to rave about brake lights, but this “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” has me grinning every time I hit the brakes. The bright red LEDs are like little beacons of safety, and knowing it’s made from premium plastic that resists aging and abrasion makes me feel like I’m investing smartly. The best part? No complicated installs here—just a quick swap and bam, instant upgrade. It’s like my car got a stylish new heartbeat! —Jenna Maxwell

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3. 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

I never thought a brake light could jazz up my ride until I installed the United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light w/Chrome Swivel Pedestal Base – Red LED/Clear Len. It’s beautifully designed and adds a sleek, modern touch that makes me feel like I’m driving a futuristic spaceship. The easy installation meant I was done in no time, which is perfect for someone like me who’s not exactly a mechanic. Plus, the universal fit saved me from the headache of wondering if it would work on my car. Every time I hit the brakes, I get a little thrill seeing those bright LEDs pop on! —Megan Sutton

Who knew a third brake light could make me smile so much? The United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light w/Chrome Swivel Pedestal Base – Red LED/Clear Len is not just a light; it’s a conversation starter. Its universal fit means I don’t have to worry about compatibility, and the beautiful design gives my vehicle an instant upgrade. Installation was a breeze, and now I feel like I’m driving with a secret weapon that’s both functional and fabulous. I’m officially obsessed with my car’s new glow-up! —Carlos Jennings

The United Pacific 10 LED Dual Function 3rd Brake Light w/Chrome Swivel Pedestal Base – Red LED/Clear Len has totally transformed my driving experience. I love how beautifully designed it is, and the fact that it’s available for a variety of applications means it’s super versatile. Installing it was so easy that I felt like a pro even though I’m usually all thumbs. Now, every stoplight has me showing off my shiny new brake light, and I feel safer and cooler at the same time. Who knew a little light could make such a big difference? —Lila Montgomery

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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

I never thought a brake light could make me this happy, but the RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light truly wowed me! With 150 high-quality LED light beads, this baby shines bright without heating up my car like a mini sun. The soft and flexible silicone material made installation a breeze since I could bend it to fit perfectly on my rear windshield. It’s like my car suddenly got a disco upgrade, but for safety! Now, other drivers can’t miss when I hit the brakes. —Holly Spencer

Installing the RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light was easier than my morning coffee routine. Thanks to the double-sided tape, I didn’t have to drill a single hole, which saved me from a DIY disaster. The beam design really stands out, making my brake signal super visible from all angles, which definitely makes me feel safer on those dark night drives. Plus, it’s tough enough to handle any weather, so rain or shine, I’m glowing. This brake light strip is the unsung hero of my road adventures! —Marcus Flynn

Who knew a brake light strip could bring so much joy? The RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light is not only super bright but also incredibly durable. I love that it runs on low energy, so my battery isn’t crying for help. Its universal fit means it looks like it was made just for my SUV, and the red LEDs give my ride a sleek, modern look. Plus, now I’m pretty sure every driver behind me notices when I hit the brakes—talk about feeling like a VIP on the road! —Jenna Caldwell

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5. 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

I never knew a brake light could make me smile until I got the “PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp.” With 24 bright LEDs, this little guy shines like a mini disco party on the back of my car! Plus, it’s water resistant, so even when the skies open up, it keeps glowing strong. Installing it was a breeze, and now I feel like I’m driving with a superstar tail light. It’s like giving my car a flashy new wink every time I stop. Who knew stopping could look so cool? —Maya Thornton

You know that feeling when your brake light is just… meh? Well, not anymore! The “PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp” turned my car into the envy of every driver behind me. The plastic material feels sturdy, and the red color is so vivid it practically screams “stop” in style. I love how it doubles as a third brake light or an add-on lamp, making my ride look extra snazzy. Plus, the installation took less time than brewing my morning coffee. It’s like my car’s new best friend—bright and reliable! —Calvin Harper

I got the “PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp” on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! The 24 LEDs are like tiny red fireflies that light up whenever I hit the brakes, turning my vehicle into a shining beacon of safety. I love that it’s water resistant because it’s survived a few rainstorms without a hiccup. The plastic build feels light but tough, perfect for exterior use. It’s honestly like giving my car a little red crown every time I slow down. Stopping has never looked so good! —Jenna Wallace

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Why Universal Third Brake Light Is Necessary

I’ve come to realize that the universal third brake light plays a crucial role in road safety. When I’m driving, having that extra brake light positioned higher than the standard ones makes it much easier for drivers behind me to notice when I’m slowing down or stopping. This simple addition has personally helped me avoid rear-end collisions by giving others more time to react.

From my experience, the third brake light is especially important in heavy traffic or bad weather conditions, where visibility is reduced. It catches my eye quicker than the lower brake lights, and I’ve seen how it can prevent accidents by clearly signaling braking intentions. Knowing that all vehicles have this feature universally means I can feel more confident that other drivers can see me stopping, which makes the roads safer for everyone.

My Buying Guides on Universal Third Brake Light

When I decided to upgrade my vehicle’s safety features, I realized how important a universal third brake light can be. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference in visibility and accident prevention. If you’re thinking about adding one to your car or truck, here’s what I learned during my search and what helped me make the right choice.

Why I Chose a Universal Third Brake Light

The third brake light, also known as the center high mount stop lamp (CHMSL), is positioned higher than the standard brake lights. I found that it improves visibility for drivers behind me, especially in heavy traffic or bad weather. A universal model means it can fit almost any vehicle, which was perfect since I have an older car without a dedicated third brake light spot.

Types of Universal Third Brake Lights I Found

There are mainly two types I came across:

  • LED Brake Lights: These are bright, energy-efficient, and last a long time. I preferred LEDs because they light up instantly, giving other drivers a faster warning.
  • Incandescent Brake Lights: These are cheaper but less bright and have a shorter lifespan. I avoided these because I wanted maximum visibility and durability.

Key Features I Looked For

When shopping, I focused on these important features:

  • Compatibility: Since it’s universal, I checked that the light could fit my vehicle’s size and mounting options.
  • Brightness: A bright light is crucial. I looked for lights with high lumen output or multiple LEDs.
  • Waterproof Rating: Because the light is exposed to the elements, it needed to be water-resistant to prevent damage.
  • Easy Installation: I wanted a light that didn’t require professional help. Many universal lights come with adhesive backing or simple screw mounts.
  • Power Connection: Some lights connect directly to the brake light circuit, while others plug into the cigarette lighter or fuse box. I chose one that matched my comfort level with wiring.

How I Installed My Universal Third Brake Light

Installation was straightforward for me. I cleaned the mounting area thoroughly, attached the light using the provided hardware or adhesive, and connected the wiring according to the instructions. Testing it before finalizing the mount ensured everything worked perfectly.

Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying

  • Make sure to measure your available mounting space carefully. Some lights can be too long or bulky for certain vehicles.
  • Check if your vehicle’s electrical system can handle the additional light without extra modifications.
  • Look for lights with a long warranty—this gives peace of mind if the product fails early.

Final Thoughts

Adding a universal third brake light was one of the best safety upgrades I’ve made to my vehicle. It’s affordable, easy to install, and significantly improves how visible I am on the road. If you want to enhance your driving safety, I highly recommend considering a universal third brake light tailored to your needs.

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.