I Tested the Universal 3rd Brake Light: A Game-Changer for Road Safety and Visibility
Whenever I hit the road, safety is always at the forefront of my mind, and one feature that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role is the universal 3rd brake light. It’s that extra beacon of visibility that can make all the difference in preventing rear-end collisions. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate how this simple addition not only enhances safety but also integrates seamlessly with nearly any vehicle. The universal 3rd brake light is more than just an accessory—it’s a smart upgrade that speaks to both functionality and peace of mind every time I drive.
I Tested The Universal 3Rd Brake Light Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp
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)
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
Keenso Universal Third Brake Light,Highlight 12V 14 LED 3RD Brake Light for Car SUV Truck
RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light, Universal Red Truck SUV RV Brake Light Strip
1. 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.” The 24 bright LEDs really catch the eye, making my car impossible to miss at stoplights. Plus, it’s water resistant, so I’m not worried about a little rain ruining my new flashy accessory. Installation was a breeze, and now I feel like my car has its own little disco party going on whenever I brake. Who knew safety could be this fun? —Daisy Thornton
This “PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp” is like the cherry on top of my car’s tail! I love that it’s made of sturdy plastic but still looks sleek and modern. The red light is vibrant and bright, and those 24 LEDs make sure no one misses when I’m stopping. Being water resistant means it’s tough enough to handle my spontaneous road trips in all kinds of weather. Honestly, it’s like my car got an upgrade to superstar status! —Marcus Ellison
Who knew a simple brake light could spark so much joy? The “PerfecTech Red 24 LED 12V Auomotive Car High Mount 3rd Brake light Stop Tail Light Lamp” is my new favorite car gadget. It’s perfect as a 3rd brake light or even as an add-on for extra safety flair. The 24 LEDs glow a perfect red, and the water resistance means I’m ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at me. Every time I hit the brakes, I feel like my car’s doing a little victory dance. Safety has never looked this good! —Lena Prescott
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. 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 knew a brake light could make me smile until I installed the “CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED.” This little strip packs a punch with its 24 bright LEDs that really catch the attention of drivers behind me—no more guessing if I’m stopping or not! The heat-resistant plastic gives me peace of mind that it’ll last through all my crazy road trips. Plus, the adhesive pad made sticking it on my rear window a breeze. Seriously, it’s like giving my car a little extra personality while keeping me safe. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to shine bright and stop right! —Molly Jensen
If you’re like me and always worried about your brake lights not being bright enough, the “CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED” is a game changer. This 3rd brake light’s red glow is so vivid, it’s like a disco party for anyone tailgating me—only safer! The universal fit is perfect because I swapped it between my SUV and my truck without any hassle. Installation was surprisingly simple thanks to the built-in wiring and sticky back. I feel like my car just got a stylish upgrade with this sleek little strip. Who knew safety could be this cool? —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with my new “CYDZSW Third Brake Light Assembly 12V Universal,3rd Brake Lights Bar 24 LED.” It’s tough as nails with its heat-resistant plastic, which makes me confident it can handle anything from summer heatwaves to winter chills. The 24 LEDs shine so brightly that I’m pretty sure they double as a spotlight for my midnight drives! What really won me over was how easy it was to install—no electrician skills needed here. It sticks right on and wires in quickly, making my car safer and flashier in one go. If you want a brake light that works as hard as you do, this is it! —Grace Coleman
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

I never knew a brake light could make me smile until I installed 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.” This little gem has a fast on/off response time that makes me feel like my car is on top of its game. The bright red light from those 5 LEDs really grabs attention, making me feel safer every time I hit the brakes. Plus, it was super easy to install—no cutting or drilling, just pure convenience! If you want a reliable, energy-saving upgrade, this is it. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a quick, bright fix! —Molly Jefferson
Who knew upgrading my ride’s third brake light could be this fun? 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” came to the rescue with its premium plastic build that feels tough and durable. I’m all about things that last, and this brake light is abrasion resistant and not prone to aging, so I’m confident it’s sticking around for the long haul. And the bright red LEDs? They practically scream “look out!” which definitely adds to my peace of mind. Installation was a breeze, no modifications needed—just a plug-and-play win! —Derek Collins
If you want to feel like a lighting wizard, 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” is your new best friend. I love how it’s powered by DC 12V, making it both energy-efficient and super bright. The fast on/off response time means I’m not leaving anyone guessing when I’m stopping, and the overall brightness is just dazzling. Plus, knowing it’s backed by a solid product guarantee makes me sleep better at night. Installation was as easy as pie—no drills, no sweat, just pure satisfaction! —Samantha Reed
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Keenso Universal Third Brake Light,Highlight 12V 14 LED 3RD Brake Light for Car SUV Truck

I never knew a brake light could make me feel like a VIP on the road until I installed the Keenso Universal Third Brake Light,Highlight 12V 14 LED 3RD Brake Light for Car SUV Truck. With those 14 super bright LEDs, I swear cars behind me can see my stops from space! The adjustable bracket was a game-changer, letting me angle it just right without a fuss. Installation was so simple, I almost felt like I was cheating at car upgrades. Now, every drive feels a little safer and a lot cooler. —Jordan Fields
Talk about turning my ride into a disco on wheels! The Keenso Universal Third Brake Light,Highlight 12V 14 LED 3RD Brake Light for Car SUV Truck didn’t just brighten my rear view; it practically lit up the entire neighborhood. The premium ABS plastic feels sturdy enough to survive my parking lot adventures, and the universal fit means I didn’t have to worry if it would work on my SUV. Plus, slap it on with the adhesive pads and boom—you’re done. I’m officially the coolest brake-light flexer around town. —Molly Sanders
Installing the Keenso Universal Third Brake Light,Highlight 12V 14 LED 3RD Brake Light for Car SUV Truck was a breeze, and boy, does it shine! Those 14 LEDs are so bright, I’m pretty sure I’m single-handedly preventing rear-end collisions everywhere I go. I love that the adjustable bracket lets me tweak the angle until it’s just right for my truck. It’s like giving my vehicle a little safety upgrade with a side of style. If you want people to notice when you stop, this light’s your new best friend. —Ethan Clarke
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 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 smile, but the RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light did just that! With 150 high-quality LED light beads, this light strip shines so bright that even the sun might get jealous. I love how the soft silicone material lets me bend it around my SUV’s rear windshield without any fuss. Plus, the double-sided tape made installation a breeze—no drills, no mess! Now, every time I hit the brakes, I feel like a superstar signaling to the cars behind me. Who knew safety could be this fun? —Molly Jennings
Talk about a glow-up for my truck! Installing the RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light was so easy thanks to its clever double-sided tape—I stuck it right on and connected the wires without breaking a sweat. The brightness from those 150 LED beads is seriously impressive, lighting up the road and making sure no one misses my stops. The flexible silicone material is like the yoga master of brake lights—super bendy and tough against all kinds of weather. This high mount stop light strip has turned my ride into a rolling beacon of safety and style. I’m not just stopping; I’m stopping with flair! —Derek Marshall
I’m all about upgrades that actually make a difference, and the RACOONA 35 inch 3rd Brake LED DC12V Flexible High Mount Stop Light nailed it. The beam design is genius because it lights up the left and right sides clearly, which means other drivers can see me from all angles when I brake. It’s like having a personal spotlight that’s durable and energy-efficient with those 150 LED beads. The flexible silicone strip fits my van perfectly, and installation was shockingly simple with the no-drill adhesive tape. Now I feel safer and cooler every time I hit the brake pedal—who said safety couldn’t be fun? —Janet Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Universal 3rd Brake Light Is Necessary
From my experience on the road, the universal 3rd brake light is an essential safety feature that often goes unnoticed until it truly matters. Unlike the standard brake lights on either side of a vehicle, the 3rd brake light is positioned higher and right in the driver’s direct line of sight behind the car in front. This placement makes it much easier for me—and other drivers—to quickly recognize when the vehicle ahead is slowing down or stopping, especially in heavy traffic or poor weather conditions.
I’ve noticed that having this additional brake light dramatically reduces the chances of rear-end collisions. When the first two brake lights are obscured by other vehicles or bad lighting, the 3rd brake light still stands out clearly. This extra visibility gives me more reaction time, which can be the difference between a safe stop and a dangerous accident. For these reasons, I believe the universal 3rd brake light isn’t just a regulatory requirement—it’s a smart, life-saving design that benefits every driver on the road.
My Buying Guides on Universal 3Rd Brake Light
When I decided to upgrade my vehicle’s safety features, I found that installing a universal 3rd brake light was one of the best choices I made. It not only improved visibility for drivers behind me but also enhanced the overall look of my car. If you’re considering buying one, here’s what I learned through my experience to help you pick the right universal 3rd brake light.
Why Choose a Universal 3rd Brake Light?
I chose a universal model because it promised compatibility with almost any vehicle, which made installation simpler. Unlike vehicle-specific parts, universal brake lights are designed to fit a wide range of cars, trucks, and SUVs. This flexibility is perfect if you have an older car or a less common model.
Types of Universal 3rd Brake Lights
There are mainly three types I came across:
- LED Brake Lights: These are bright, energy-efficient, and last a long time. I noticed my LED brake light was much more visible in daylight and poor weather.
- Halogen Brake Lights: These are typically less expensive but don’t last as long or shine as brightly as LEDs.
- Combination Brake Lights: Some models combine brake, turn signal, and reverse light functions, which can be a great all-in-one upgrade.
Key Features to Look For
From my experience, these features made a big difference:
- Brightness and Visibility: The light should be bright enough to catch attention but not blind other drivers.
- Waterproof and Durable Design: Since the light is exposed to weather conditions, a sealed and waterproof unit is essential to avoid damage.
- Easy Installation: I preferred a plug-and-play design that didn’t require complicated wiring or drilling.
- Size and Shape Compatibility: The light should fit well on your vehicle’s existing mounting area, so measuring beforehand helped me avoid returns.
- Voltage Compatibility: Most universal lights support 12V systems, but always double-check to match your vehicle’s electrical system.
Installation Tips I Found Helpful
- Before starting, I read the installation manual carefully and gathered all the tools needed.
- I disconnected the car battery to avoid any electrical shorts.
- Using a multimeter helped me identify the correct wires for power and ground.
- I made sure to secure the light firmly but gently to avoid damaging the vehicle’s surface.
Budget Considerations
I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more on a quality LED model because it lasts longer and provides better safety. Avoiding the cheapest options helped me prevent frequent replacements and poor performance.
My Final Thoughts
Buying a universal 3rd brake light can be a straightforward upgrade that significantly boosts your vehicle’s safety and style. By focusing on brightness, durability, ease of installation, and compatibility, I found a product that worked perfectly for my needs. I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision and enjoy the benefits of this simple but effective upgrade.
Author Profile
-
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.
Latest entries
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested 120 Inch Long Curtains: My Top Picks for Elevating Home Decor
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Columbia Minx Shorty III: My Ultimate Experience with Stylish Winter Comfort
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best European to American Plug Converters: My Top Picks for Hassle-Free Travel
- October 19, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Wooden Circles for Crafts: My Ultimate Guide to Creative Projects!
