I recently broke the center brake light (Dealer called it the Third Brake Light) on my 2004 330, and my local dealer wants too much to replace it. Is there anyone else who might carry this part for a bit cheaper or should I just go try a junkyard? Also, is there a part number for this?

Thanks

 

The center rear brake light is called "3rd brake light". Every one recognizes what you are talking about when you mention 3rd brake light. Use this term looking for it.

When you say "broken" what do you mean. Bulb is popped or some piece has broken off.

Bulbs are some what generic. You need to tell us that bulb is the problem. Bulb can be purchased at he dealer parts counter. [The good thing is the dealer will give you the right wattage lamp. At car parts, you will most probably get 2 bulbs for the same price, but you will have to ensure you are getting the type and wattage to match the OEM]. I mention wattage as the brake sensor light will come on if the wattage is incorrect.

If it is the assembly:

The choices are:
New: Dealer or CL sponsors here.

Used: would be salvage yard. [check the body shop Lexus uses to find who they salvage the vehicles to].

Labor: Even if it is the bulb, the dealer will charge you a significant amount of labor. min1/2 hr at roughly $100/hr.

Salim

 

Replacing a bulb is one of the last vestages that a owner can do themselves. If you can put in your own fuel you should be able to change a bulb. If this is to much of a project you have to pay the price.
Bet a local garage would charge maybe $10, not $100.

 

I have not replaced my 3rd brake light, but it is supposed to be 2 wrench in scope of work.

Also one of the front ... fog lights? (not sure which one) is 3.5 wrenches.

Salim

 

Thanks a lot Salim.
I cracked the assembly, so I'll check if any of those places have it cheaper. Also, is this something i would potentially be able to do myself?

Thanks

 

I have not done it and also I have no idea about your prowess.

Ask the Lexus dealership parts to fax you the page which has the assembly. This will give you good clues as well as the part number that you are searching for.

You will have to make the determination about access. Knowing the accessibility and having the right tool is the key to a DIY.

Salim

 

It's not impossible, but it'll be real hard to change a bulb on that. I've removed my third brake light, and it's a plastic bar with LEDs soldered in, but the whole assembly is also sealed pretty tight.

However, since bshig says he cracked the assembly, that's a whole different story. Does your third brake light still light up? I wouldn't go replace it until it stops working completely.