What brake light does a 2016 Ford Escape take?
The rear brake/taillights on a 2016 Ford Escape typically use a dual-filament bulb in each lamp, most often the 3157 type. In some trims or international markets you may encounter a 3157A variant or occasionally a similar base such as 7443; always verify by inspecting the current bulb or consulting the owner's manual. If your Escape uses LED tails, there may be no replaceable bulb in those assemblies.
Rear brake light bulb options
Before listing the common bulb options you might encounter in the 2016 Escape, note that the exact bulb depends on the lamp housing (outer left/right) and the trim level. Use these as a guide and confirm with the bulb you remove.
- 3157 (dual-filament) — the most common base for Ford rear brake/taillights in the 2013–2016 Escape. This bulb provides both the taillight and brake functions from two filaments.
- 3157A — an alternative variant used on some markets or trims; functionally similar but with a slightly different base/contact arrangement. Check your socket to confirm.
- 7443 — a similar two-filament base used in some vehicles; not typically standard on most Escape trims, but possible in certain configurations or aftermarket replacements. Verify with the socket and part number.
In practice, most 2016 Escapes use a 3157-style bulb for the brake/taillight. If your vehicle has LED tail lights, there may be no replaceable bulb and you would replace the entire tail-light assembly instead. Always match the base and socket to avoid buying the wrong type.
How to verify and replace the bulb
Check the bulb base and markings
To confirm the exact bulb, remove the tail light lens or access the bulb from the trunk area and read the base type printed on the bulb or socket. Compare it to 3157, 3157A, or 7443 to determine the correct replacement.
Replacement steps for a typical 3157-style bulb
Follow these steps for a standard rear brake/taillight bulb replacement on a non-LED 2016 Escape:
- Open the hatch and locate the rear light assembly. Access may require removing a trim panel or trunk liner.
- Disconnect the electrical connector from the bulb socket.
- Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise to release it from the housing, then pull the bulb straight out.
- Insert the new 3157 (or 3157A if that's the identified base) bulb into the socket, ensuring the alignment tabs fit properly.
- Reinsert the socket into the housing and twist clockwise to lock. Reconnect the electrical connector and test the brake lights.
If the tail lights are LED or if the assembly is sealed units, refer to the owner’s manual or consult a dealer to determine replacement options or service requirements.
Summary
For most 2016 Ford Escape models, the brake light bulb is a 3157 dual-filament type, used in the rear brake/taillight assemblies. Some markets or trims may use a 3157A variant, and rare configurations could involve a 7443 base. Always verify by inspecting the current bulb or consulting the owner's manual, and follow proper safety precautions when accessing the rear light assemblies. If your tails are LED, a bulb replacement may not be possible and the entire unit could need replacement.
Are the brake light and tail light the same bulb?
Yes, the brake light and tail light are often the same bulb but with two separate filaments or circuits, so they have different functions. The tail light uses one filament that is always on when your headlights are on, while the brake light uses a second, brighter filament that only activates when you press the brake pedal. Some vehicles, however, have separate bulbs for each function.
How it works
- Single bulb, dual function: In many cars, a single bulb with two filaments is used. The lower-wattage filament acts as the tail light, and the higher-wattage filament acts as the brake light.
- Separate bulbs: Other vehicles have a separate bulb for the tail light and another for the brake light within the same light assembly.
- Diagnostic clue: If your tail light is working but the brake light isn't, it often indicates that one filament on the dual-filament bulb has burned out, and the bulb needs to be replaced, explains Reddit users.
- Third brake light: Modern vehicles also have a separate, center high-mounted stop light (CHMSL), which is a brake light only and does not function as a tail light.
How to replace brake light bulb 2016 Ford Escape?
And then just pop it right out. And you can see this one has even some burning color around it. So definitely have an issue with. This. Let's pull this out.
What brake light bulb do I need for a 2014 Ford Escape?
Replacement Light Bulbs
| S | |
|---|---|
| Brake Light | |
| Standard : 3157R Call for More Information | Long Life : 3157RLED Call for More Information |
| Fog Front Light | |
| Standard : 9145 Call for More Information |
What brake light does a 2016 Ford Escape need?
2013 to 2016 Ford Escape - Brake & Tail Lights Bulb Sizes
| Position | Bulb | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Brake Light (Rear) | 3156 (3157) | Halogen |
| Brake Light (High-Mounted) | 912 or LED | Halogen |
| Reverse Light | 921 (912) | Halogen |
| Tail Light | 3156 (3157) | Halogen |
