The brake lights on a 2009 Honda CR-V are powered by the tail/stop circuit, and the fuse that protects that circuit is typically labeled “TAIL/STOP” in the engine-compartment fuse box. It is usually a 10-amp fuse. If the brake lights aren’t working, this fuse is the first component to check.
Where the brake lights draw power
The brake-light circuit in the 2009 CR-V runs through the rear lighting assembly and is protected by a fuse in the engine-room fuse box. Some markets or production batches may use labels such as TAIL/STOP or STOP LAMP for this fuse. If the fuse is blown, both brake and tail lights on the affected side may stop working.
Fuse location and labeling
To locate the brake-light fuse, locate the engine-compartment fuse box. Open the cover and refer to the diagram on the inside of the lid or the owner’s manual to identify the fuse labeled TAIL/STOP (sometimes listed as STOP LAMP). The typical rating is 10 amps, but some vehicles may use a 10A or 15A fuse depending on regional variations.
Before examining the fuse, ensure the ignition is off and the battery is disconnected if you’re manipulating wiring. Use the fuse puller (usually attached to the fuse box cover) or a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove the fuse for inspection.
Now, steps to identify and handle the fuse responsibly:
- Open the engine-compartment fuse box and locate the fuse labeled TAIL/STOP (or STOP LAMP). Confirm the rating is 10A as indicated on the fuse and the diagram.
- Remove the fuse and inspect the metal element inside. If the metal strip is broken or there is a darkened appearance, the fuse is blown.
- Replace the fuse with a new fuse of the same amperage (typically 10A). Do not substitute a higher-amp fuse, which could cause wiring damage or fire risk.
- Reinstall the fuse cap, then test the brake lights by pressing the brake pedal with the parking brake disengaged and the lights exposed to a reflector or test light.
If the fuse blows again after replacement, there is likely a fault in the brake-light switch, wiring, or in the tail-light circuits that will require a closer inspection by a qualified technician.
Additional troubleshooting if brake lights still don’t work
If replacing the fuse does not restore brake-light operation, perform these checks to pin down the problem:
- Inspect the brake light bulbs in both tail light assemblies for burnout. Replace any burned-out bulbs.
- Check the brake light switch at the brake pedal. A faulty switch may not send the signal to illuminate the lamps when the pedal is pressed.
- Inspect wiring and connectors at the rear tail-light assemblies for corrosion, loose connections, or damaged wires.
- Check for other related fuses in the interior fuse box labeled for STOP/TABLE or BRAKE LAMP, as some markets separate the signals for different lighting functions.
- Verify that the center high-mount brake light (if equipped) is functioning, since it can be on a separate circuit that may also fail and affect perceived brake-light performance.
If issues persist after these checks, it’s advisable to consult a professional technician. Driving with malfunctioning brake lights is illegal and dangerous.
Summary
The brake lights on a 2009 Honda CR-V are generally protected by the engine-compartment fuse labeled TAIL/STOP (often 10A). Start troubleshooting by inspecting and replacing this fuse, then verify the brake-light switch, bulbs, and rear wiring if the lights still don’t function. Always refer to the owner’s manual or the fuse box diagram for your specific vehicle variant, as labeling and amperage can vary by market and production year.