4runner_pr
New member
I replaced the braking light bulbs with LEDs and now when I step on the brake the dashboard lights turn on. I did a search but didn't find anything related. has anyone else had this problem?? It's a 3rd gen 1997 2.7L base model
instaled LEDs, now dashboard lights turn on when I step on the brake.
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MONTYMTB
New member
Haven't heard of that specific issue, but have seen other problems after installing LED brake/turn bulbs. My LED brake bulbs caused an issue with the cruise control turning itself off when the blinkers were turned on, and also ABS light coming on. Replaced with regular bulbs and problem went away.
If you're adamant about having LED brake light bulbs, I would suggest trying a different brand. I'm willing to bet you got some cheap ones on ebay...
Some vehicle electrical systems count on the resistance of a incandescent bulb in order to operate correctly as they are designed with them in mind. When you replace that with a near zero resistance LED bulb strange things can happen. There are some LED bulbs that are designed to still have the same resistance as the incandescent they are replacing, I would try one of those if you really want LED's.
desertegal7
Member
The brake light bulb is two lines in it one for light and one for braking,
the LED having only one and when you press on brake pedal electricity goes back to somewhere which is in your case is the dash. (its not exactly like this but this is a simple description)
or maybe there is short circuit inside the LED bulb,, just remove it
the LED having only one and when you press on brake pedal electricity goes back to somewhere which is in your case is the dash. (its not exactly like this but this is a simple description)
or maybe there is short circuit inside the LED bulb,, just remove it
4runner_pr
New member
They're not a must, guess I'll go back to the regular bulbs... I wish they were cheap, got them for 20 bucks at Autozone. Thanks for taking the time to reply!
jgue467
Senior Member
Don't think its the 'cheap' leds, i use the cheap stuff off ebay too, 96 cents a piece on average and have been working for 2+ years. Its something else, bad bulb, circuit, try swapping some bulbs around or leaving a couple regular bulbs in either the front or rear circuit. Luck! :cowboy:
jeremyc74
Banned
What's the point of LEDs if you're not going to drastically reduce the current draw though? The difference in appearance behind the factory lens is minimal, and the lifespan of a traditional taillight bulb is so long that there's negligible advantage there too.
I just don't see going to the trouble for basically no benefit.
jgue467
Senior Member
You're right, in general they're about the same brightness as originals in say the basic on, brake, reverse or turn signals which like you say really doesn't achiever much. But my first reason for putting some in was for interior use, there they are Much brighter than originals, save lots of energy - i park my vehicle and leave interior lights on for long periods - so in that use i do think its an advantage along with the front parking lights. :cowboy:
I dont have them myself but I do believe that they are still brighter with the load resistor. Also LED's will still outlast bulbs.
jeremyc74
Banned
Oh, don't get me wrong, I'm not against LEDs when they make sense. I've switched over most of my interior lights too. Of course, the quality of the aftermarket stuff is so bad I'm questioning myself for doing it, but when they work they're great.
I just don't see paying all that extra for taillight bulbs that don't really improve anything significantly.
They'll outlast the incandescents, but when those last 5-7 years, does it really matter?
cbr900boy
New member
I have a 98. Changed all my rear lights to led untill the ABS light came. Did some research and put regular bulb back in the third brake light. Problem solved.
