Description
Third rear brake light for Citroën C4, C4 Cactus, DS4, C5 X7. Before purchasing, make sure the vehicle’s supply cable is not damaged. Tested fully functional.
This centre high-mounted stop lamp (third brake light) is a direct-fit replacement commonly used on selected Citroën models. It restores a clear, bright brake signal to improve safety and legal compliance at the rear of the vehicle. Designed with mechanics and DIY enthusiasts in mind, the description below highlights fitment, typical failure causes, practical replacement steps and technical references to help you identify the correct part quickly (part numbers and cross-references included for search engine visibility).
Features And Benefits
Reliable Brake Signal: Restores full visibility of the brake lamp to other road users. Easy Fitment: Designed to match original mounting points and electrical connector for a straightforward swap. Durability: Built to withstand usual rear-lid vibration and road conditions; however, lifecycle depends on exposure to moisture and impacts.
How It Works And Why It Fails
Function: The unit provides the high-mounted brake signal (center brake light) and connects to the vehicle wiring harness to illuminate when the brake pedal is pressed. Common Failure Modes: Water Ingress — damaged seals or cracked lens allow moisture, causing corrosion or short circuits. Connector Corrosion or Broken Wiring — pins or cable wear from movement of the tailgate. Impact Damage — rear hatch impacts or loading damage the housing. Electrical Faults — blown internal lamp/LED array or poor grounding. Lifetime: Electrical components can last many years, but failures are most often due to ingress or mechanical damage rather than normal electrical wear.
Replacement Procedure (Overview)
- Preparation: Park on a flat surface, switch ignition off and remove the key. Gather basic tools: trim removal tool, Phillips or Torx drivers (depending on vehicle), and a ratchet set if needed.
- Access: Open the tailgate and remove interior trim panels to expose the third brake light mounting (clips or screws typically secure the trim).
- Disconnect: Unplug the electrical connector and remove any retaining screws or nuts holding the lamp to the tailgate.
- Fitment: Install the replacement unit, secure fasteners at factory torque where known, reconnect the electrical connector and reassemble interior trim.
- Test: With the help of an assistant or using a brake pedal tester, confirm the lamp illuminates correctly under braking and that no warning lights appear on the dash.
- Final Check: Inspect seals and cable routing to avoid pinch points and ensure the supply cable is not damaged (as noted above).
Recommendations For Installation
- Inspect Supply Cable: Verify the supply cable and connector on the vehicle are undamaged before fitting the new lamp; a damaged cable must be repaired to ensure correct operation.
- Use Proper Tools: Use appropriate trim tools to avoid breaking clips and a torque wrench for fasteners where applicable.
- Seal Attention: Ensure the lamp housing seals correctly to prevent water ingress; replace any damaged foam or gaskets.
- Electrical Check: After installation, check for correct operation of brake lights and for any fault codes related to lighting circuits.
- Time Estimate: Typical replacement time for an experienced mechanic is 20–45 minutes depending on trim complexity.
Reason Why Part Most Commonly Fails
The most frequent causes of failure are moisture penetration through a cracked lens or degraded gasket and corrosion of the connector due to water or road salt. Mechanical damage from impacts or improper handling when removing tailgate trim also contributes to failures. Regular inspection of seals and connector condition reduces the likelihood of premature failure.
Technical Information
- Manufacturer: Stellantis (Citroën)
- Model: Citroën C4, Citroën C4 Cactus, DS4, C5 X7
- Product Codes: 9689043280; 89093324; 89093538
- Other Numbers: 6350V2; 6351HH; 6351EY
Keywords: Third Brake Light, Centre High-Mounted Stop Lamp, CHMSL, Citroën C4 Brake Light, C4 Cactus Brake Light, DS4 Rear Brake Light, C5 X7 Third Brake Light, Part Number 9689043280, 89093324.
