E-Bike Tail Light Not Working

In plain English

Tail lights usually switch on with the headlight and run on a long thin wire to the back of the bike, often past the rear rack, fender or wheel, where it gets pinched or cut. Some double as brake lights that brighten when you brake.

Work from the top. Steps go from free and easy to shop jobs. Switch the bike off before touching any connector. Tick each step as you go. Your progress is saved on this device.

1. 1Check it switches with the headlightFree Turn the lights on from the display and look at both. If neither works, start with our headlight guide.
2. 2Check if it has its own batteryFree Some tail lights are separate, battery-powered or USB-charged lights. Charge or replace the batteries.
3. 3Follow the wire to the backEasy Switch off. Trace the tail light wire along the frame, rack and fender. Look for pinches, cuts or a plug that has pulled apart, often near the rear wheel or under the rack.
4. 4Replace the lightModerate Match the light voltage your bike supplies and the plug type, or switch to a self-powered USB tail light.
5. 5Repair a cut wireModerate See our guide to splicing a low-voltage wire.

Parts you might need

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Only buy a part if the free steps didn't fix it. Always match the voltage and connector type to your bike.

• E-bike tail light

  Match the light voltage your bike supplies, or choose a self-powered USB light.

  Link coming soon

• Heat-shrink butt connectors

  Join two small wires and seal out water in one step. Match the wire size.

  Link coming soon

• Cable ties

  Keep wires tidy and away from moving parts.

  Link coming soon