Third Brake Light Flasher Install

[Buster1]

Hi guys. Just wanted to write up an easy mod I just did that enhances safety, though it might not be entirely legal in your area. I installed a third brake light (CHMSL) flasher module. Total time was about 1+15 minutes, with 15 minutes or so to program the module.

Mercedes puts these in most of their cars stock, as well as some Asian manufacturers. Here’s a study Mercedes did if you’re interested in the science.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1155/2014/792670#_i17

https://www.superbrightbulbs.com/dcell2.html

Here’s what I did for the install.

I ordered the X1 module from Amazon. There are other modules you can get from this company too each with different features that the module can do.

I like the X1 because it has the ability to program the flasher to stop flashing with repeated brake applications… like in stop and go traffic. So it won’t keep bothering folks behind me, but on the initial stop… it should help get the attention of distracted drivers.

Once the unit arrives you’ll have to program it with a 9V battery. But the video they have online is actually pretty good. This is a screen grab for the S1, but the video walks you through all their models.

After programming the rate of flash, number of flashes, and other parameters, you’re ready to install!

Gain access to the third brake light wire and ground. I chose to do this in my swing gate, just left of the connector plug. White/green is the + and the gray (or black wire right of the connector) is the -. The third brake light wires are the middle bunch and just have the 2 wires. The upper black wire with the white connector clips is the back-up camera (if you have that option).

The instructions are pretty good and all the splice connectors are provided. You will need a quality wire splice crimp tool.

I won’t get into all the wiring, again, the instructions are good. The red and yellow wires go on the positive wires, and the black clamps on the ground with the supplied clamping clip. The white wire stays unattached and can be used later for reprogramming if desired. I covered the end with a little electrical tape to prevent any problems.

Here it is wired in. Test it here to ensure all is well, then zip tie it down for security.

Good luck!

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[Sublime]

They're annoying.

 

[Buster1]

Cool! Thanks for your input!

 

[azjl#3]

They're annoying.

Yep, but you see it and slow.

 

[Terrymo]

They're annoying.

 

[Terrymo]

Cool! Thanks for your input!

I see the value of it, especially on motorcycles. Too many drivers doing too many things rather than paying attention to their surrounding.

 

[Heimkehr]

Here's a plug-and-play option that's quick and easy.

 

[chevymitchell]

They're annoying.

So, they work then? Lol.

 

[AZ Hella]

Seems easier to use the Tazer

 

[Rhinebeck01]

Myself and a couple of other forum members installed such a unit on our JL's 3 yrs ago. Mine still works great... https://www.jlwranglerforums.com/fo...cation-in-my-new-2020-jeep.55007/post-1207107

 

[Buster1]

Here’s a video of the X1 in action. I have it set for 5 flashes, a medium-fast rate, and 10 second lockout (which means it won’t flash again unless 10 seconds have elapsed since the previous brake release).

 

[Dyolfknip74]

I have never seen a Mercedes running these stock in either North America or Europe.

In saying that, I've run them on motorcycles before and may put one in the JL now. Thanks.

 

[Buster1]

Seems easier to use the Tazer

Tazer is cool. The X1 (and other models) are 1/10th the cost of a Tazer. But I realize that the Tazer has a lot more functionality. This is a simple and inexpensive option.

 

[Javwohl]

I have this same one on my gti for the third brake light def makes people notice you when you brake quick easy and cheap mod. A vw dealership used to install this on every vehicle they sold.

 

[ForgottenTaco]

They're annoying.

I totally agree with you. Seems like every shit box Honda in my area has them.

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