1997-2001 Honda CR-V High Mount Stop Lamp: Diagnosis and Replacement Guide
This guide covers common failures, inspection tips for used parts, and a complete DIY replacement walkthrough for the first-generation Honda CR-V third brake light.
- The most common cause of failure is a simple burnt-out 7440 bulb, which is an easy and inexpensive fix.
- The original Honda lamp assembly (34272-S10-A01) is discontinued, making a quality used OEM part the best option for fit and longevity.
- Water leaks are common due to a failed gasket; inspect any used part for a pliable seal and check for cracks in the housing.
- Replacement is extremely easy for DIYers, requiring only basic tools and about 15 minutes.
Symptoms of Failure
Failure of the high mount stop lamp on a 1997-2001 Honda CR-V is typically straightforward to diagnose. The most common symptom is simply that the light does not turn on when the brake pedal is pressed. Other, less common symptoms can point to different underlying issues.
- Light Does Not Work: This is the most frequent symptom. The cause is most often a burnt-out bulb. If a new bulb doesn't solve the problem, the issue could be a blown fuse, a corroded bulb socket, or a problem with the wiring.
- Flickering or Dim Light: A light that flickers or appears dim often points to a poor electrical connection. This could be caused by corrosion inside the bulb socket or a loose connection where the wiring harness plugs into the lamp assembly.
- Water Inside the Lamp Housing: If you notice condensation or standing water inside the red lens, the foam gasket that seals the lamp against the tailgate has failed. This is a common issue on older vehicles and should be addressed promptly to prevent electrical shorts and corrosion.
- All Brake Lights Are Stuck On: If the high mount stop lamp and the main brake lights stay on even when the car is off, the problem is almost certainly a failed brake light switch stopper. 🎬 Watch this video on fixing 1st gen CR-V brake light issues This is a small plastic pad on the brake pedal arm that presses the switch; it becomes brittle and crumbles over time.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of this writing, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Honda or the NHTSA that directly address the high mount stop lamp assembly for the 1997-2001 Honda CR-V. Most issues are related to normal wear and tear, such as burnt-out bulbs or aging seals.
Pro Tip: While the lamp itself has no recalls, a common related failure is the brake light switch stopper pad on the pedal. If all your brake lights are stuck on, this is the likely culprit. It's an inexpensive part and simple to replace.
Buying a Used High Mtd Stop Lamp
Since Honda has discontinued the original OEM lamp assembly (part number 34272-S10-A01), a quality used part is often the best and only option for an exact factory fit. Aftermarket assemblies are available, but may have issues with fitment, color fading, or premature seal failure. 🎬 Watch this 1st gen CR-V third brake light replacement video When inspecting a used OEM lamp, check the following:
- Check the Lens: Look for any cracks, deep scratches, or hazing. The red plastic should be clear and vibrant, not faded to pink or orange.
- Inspect the Housing: The black plastic housing can become brittle with age. Gently check for cracks, especially around the mounting points.
- Examine the Gasket: The foam or rubber gasket that seals the lamp to the vehicle is crucial for preventing water leaks. A good used part will have a gasket that is still pliable and intact. If it's compressed, cracked, or missing, you will need to source a new one or use a suitable sealant.
- Verify the Wiring and Connector: Ensure the wiring pigtail and the electrical connector are intact, with no cut wires or corrosion on the pins.
- Check the Bulb Socket: Twist and remove the bulb socket from the housing. The contacts inside should be clean and free of rust or green/white corrosion.
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
Replacing the high mount stop lamp is a very easy DIY job that requires no special tools. The entire process typically takes less than 15 minutes.
🎬 See this step-by-step CR-V center brake light tutorial- Open the Rear Tailgate: Access the lamp from the inside of the vehicle.
- Remove the Interior Cover: The lamp assembly is hidden behind a plastic trim piece at the top of the tailgate interior. This cover is held on by clips. Gently pry it off using your fingers or a trim removal tool. There are often small notches on the sides to get started.
- Disconnect the Wiring: Locate the electrical connector attached to the bulb socket. Press the release tab and pull the connector to unplug it.
- Remove the Bulb and Socket: Twist the bulb socket counter-clockwise and pull it out of the lamp housing.
- Unbolt the Lamp Assembly: The lamp housing is held to the tailgate by two 5mm hex nuts. Remove these nuts with a socket wrench. The lamp can now be removed from the outside of the tailgate.
- Install the New Lamp: Clean the area on the tailgate where the new lamp will sit. Position the new lamp, ensuring the gasket is properly seated, and secure it with the two hex nuts. Do not overtighten.
- Reinstall and Test: Re-insert the bulb socket into the new housing with a clockwise twist. Reconnect the wiring harness. Before snapping the interior cover back on, have a friend press the brake pedal to confirm the new light works. Once confirmed, snap the interior trim cover back into place.
Cost Comparison
Pricing for a replacement high mount stop lamp can vary significantly based on the source.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $0 (Discontinued) | The original Honda part 34272-S10-A01 is no longer manufactured. |
| New Aftermarket | $35 - $75 | Available from various online retailers. Quality and fit can be inconsistent. |
| Used OEM | $25 - $50 | A good value for original factory quality and fit. Prices vary by condition. |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 | Typically billed as 0.5 hours of labor. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I just replace the bulb instead of the whole lamp?
Yes, in most cases the problem is just a burnt-out bulb. The high mount stop lamp on the 1997-2001 CR-V uses a standard 7440 bulb, which is inexpensive and widely available. You only need to replace the entire lamp assembly if the housing is cracked, leaking, or electrically faulty.
Is a working high mount stop lamp required by law?
Yes. Center high mount stop lamps have been required on all new passenger cars in the United States since 1986. Driving with a non-functional third brake light is a safety hazard and can result in a traffic ticket.
I replaced the bulb and the fuse, but the light still doesn't work. What's next?
If the bulb and fuse are good, the next most likely culprits are the brake pedal switch, the bulb socket, or the wiring itself. Use a multimeter to check for power at the socket when the brake pedal is pressed. If there's no power, the problem is upstream in the wiring or at the switch. If there is power, the socket itself may be corroded and failing to make good contact with the bulb.
My lamp housing is filling with water. How can I fix it?
Water intrusion is caused by a failed gasket between the lamp assembly and the tailgate. The best solution is to replace the entire lamp assembly, as a used unit will come with a better gasket. Alternatively, you can remove the lamp, clean both surfaces thoroughly, and apply a bead of black RTV silicone or create a new gasket from weatherstripping material to form a new waterproof seal.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 34272-S10-A01 34272S10A01
Bulb Type: 7440
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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