Short answer: In most 2009 CR-V models, the brake light circuit is protected by the STOP fuse located in the interior fuse box on the driver’s side dash, typically a 15-amp fuse. If you don’t find a STOP fuse there, also check the under-hood fuse box for a STOP/TAIL or similar brake-light fuse with the same amperage.
The brake lights are part of the vehicle’s lighting circuit and are controlled by a combination of the stop light switch at the brake pedal and the body electrical system. A blown fuse can disable the brake lights, but other causes such as a faulty brake light switch, burnt bulbs, or damaged wiring can also be at fault. On the 2009 CR-V, there are two fuse panels to inspect: an interior fuse box under the dashboard and an under-hood fuse box. The exact label and position can vary by market or trim, so always check the fuse box diagrams on the covers or your owner's manual for the precise designation.
Fuse locations for the brake light circuit
Use the following checklist to locate and inspect the brake light fuse across the vehicle’s fuse panels.
- Interior fuse box (driver’s side dash): Open the fuse box and look for a fuse labeled STOP, BRAKE, or BRAKE LIGHT. It is commonly a 15A fuse. Use the diagram on the fuse box cover to confirm the exact label and location. If blown, replace with a fuse of the same amperage.
- Under-hood fuse box: If the interior panel doesn’t reveal a STOP brake-light fuse, inspect the under-hood fuse box. Some trims route the brake-light circuit through a STOP or TAIL fuse here, also typically around 15A. Refer to the under-hood fuse box diagram to identify the correct fuse.
After checking or replacing the fuse, test the brake lights to confirm proper operation. If they still don’t work, proceed to diagnose the brake light switch, bulbs, and wiring for potential issues.
What to check if brake lights still don’t work
If the fuse is intact and the lights remain out, inspect the brake light switch at the brake pedal, the bulb sockets and bulbs themselves, and the wiring harness for corrosion or damage. Faulty flasher modules or a faulty body control module can also affect brake light operation in some cases. When in doubt, consult a professional or refer to the official Honda service information for your exact VIN and trim.
Additional tips
Keep a spare 15A fuse in your vehicle's fuse box in case of a blown STOP fuse, and always replace like-for-like amperage. Document the location on a quick-reference card for future maintenance.
Summary
The brake light fuse for a 2009 Honda CR-V is typically the STOP fuse located in the interior driver’s-side fuse box (often 15A). If not found there, check the under-hood fuse box for a STOP/TAIL-related fuse. Always verify with the fuse box diagram on the cover or the owner's manual, as labels can vary by market and trim. If the fuse is good but lights still don’t work, inspect the brake light switch, bulbs, and wiring as part of a broader diagnostic.