4th Gen RAM Trucks DIY 3rd Brake Light Leak Fix
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ย. 2024
- Quick video breaking down how to fix a leaking 3rd Brake Light on a 4th Gen (2009 or Newer) RAM truck. This is a very common issue with RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 series trucks and can lead to major water damage in your interior if you let the stock 3rd Brake Light gasket deteriorate. In the video I outline a quick, cheap, and simple fix so that you won't have to worry about water leaking past your 3rd brake light.
UPDATE: After you do this fix, and after you've reinstalled your third brake light be sure to go out and retighten the screws that hold the third brake light in place. Since the gasket can shrink down a little bit after being installed it never hurts to double check and make sure things are nice and snug and secure. I went out and re-tightened mine down after a day or so.
UPDATE 08/11/2021: Had a few questions about how my gasket is still holding up after 3-4yrs of being on my truck. It still doesn't leak. I actually need to change out the bulb as it burnt out, so I'll be having a look at the gasket to see how it's held up over this long period of time. I would say almost 4 years without having to replace it is well worth how cheap it was to do this simple DIY fix, and I have enough material leftover to easily do another application if need be. Thanks for watching the video guys, I am extremely happy to see how many RAM owners this has helped. Thank you for all of the kind comments, it's very much appreciated.
Great fix! This is something that every Ram owner should take serious and fix asap because the water can also make its way down to your RF transmitter that is located behind the seats on the back body of the cab. If it starts getting wet you can soon have issues with your key fob, TPMS sensors, radio, etc and eventually going out all together leaving you unable to start your truck. This can also be caused by water leaks coming from a cracked seal on a back sliding glass window or the vent panels that are behind the back seat as well.
Thanks for posting this. I had a leak under the back seats in my 2017 Crew Cab Ram. At first I thought it was the exhausters on the back of the cab. It is a major hassle getting to the exhausters as you have to remove the back seats. But for me, the exhausters were only a very slight problem and really, may not have been leaking much at all. The real issue on my truck was from the 3rd brake light. The material you suggested in this video was a superb solution that totally fixed the leak. Plus if you need to replace a bulb it is easy to do as nothing is glued together. So, try this brake light fix first. It will likely solve your leak problem on the first try. This leak issue is a manufacturing defect stemming from a poor design of using open cell foam for gasket material. This type of foam is just like a sponge as it readily absorbs water. I imagine there are tens of thousands of Ram trucks owners out there that have this beautiful spendy truck that smells like an old moldy tennis shoe due to this issue. Ram is not the only truck manufacture out there with this same 3rd brake light problem. The damage to the vehicles interior due to this defect should be totally covered by the manufacture, but, it is not! It amazes me that there has not been a successful class action lawsuit regarding this issue...
Just did this today, and as I was leaving the store, I saw a family getting out of their 2015 Ram and told them about this fix. Paying it forward, thanks Brother.
No problem man. Glad I could help and it's awesome that you paid it forward. Take care!
I just performed this mod on my 2018 Ram, it was already leaking. Removing the old gasket adhesive, was the only difficult part of the install. Thanks for the fix advice!
Thanks for the easy fix solution. I was initially so freaked out when I noticed water spots on my interior roof liner. Wow! I'm relieved it was so easy and quick. Awesome DIY fix!
Just a testimonial to this fix: We just got a torrential rain storm last night. Over 4 inches of rain in a 8 hour period.
Not one drop of water in the truck thanks to this fix. This WORKS!!! :)
Thanks for the easy fix to a problem that should have been fixed by the manufacturer. Worked like a charm on my 2015 ram. Thanks for sharing 👍
I have a 2018 Ram with water coming into underneath the rear seat, storage compartment. April 27th, 2022, I just installed This weather stripping onto my new, third break light. I'm hopeful. Thanks for the video. May 4th, 2022, we've had heavy rains in the last week and the storage compartment underneath the rear seat is dry. So far, this fix has worked.
Got the product at ACE hardware for $12 (inflation) and just ran the hose on it directly and the problem was solved. Thanks!
Thank you!! It worked on my 2013 Ram. I replaced it And 1 hour later it rained hard and no water. Finally! Thank you for posting this. Dealer wanted $160 just to diagnose! Sved me $ and time!!!
After I posted this (maybe 2 months later) I ended up getting rid of the 2013 Ram. The leak came back sporadically and I was done. These trucks are good in other departments, but worthless if the cab roof keeps leaking. I'll never buy another RAM again. I hope others had more luck than I did.
After a very heavy rain I noticed a water stain on the headliner of my 2018 Ram 3500. Googled how to fix. Watched this video. Went to Lowe’s and got the weatherstrip. Took a few minutes to get the goo from the old gasket cleaned off. Super helpful video. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you bro just did this to my 2012 ram went straight to the drive thru carwash after i finished and no leaks at all you saved me from a future headache if i would of used the silicone stuff.
Thank you very much. I just finished doing this. Found your video last night. Last week I found an icicle hanging from the ceiling speaker. Not to mention the soaked seat. Many thanks.
Anytime! Glad that I've been able to put a fix from the RAM Forum out there so it helps other RAM owners.
Thank for sharing this information. I came across your video, watched it, rewind it back to the specs on the package, took a picture of it and got up and went to Home Depot and picked up some. Just finished installing my light back on. I did a water test before I took the light out. Even though I didn’t see or feel any water I still did it. Now I have to address the cabin vents because I believe that’s where my water is coming from.
Thanks for the feedback! I hope you got everything all sorted out.
What did you do to get the cabin vents to stop leaking?
Just did this fix with both my 2014 Ram 1500 and my daughter's Ram 1500. The weather seal you recommend was perfect for this. Great video!
I tried this on my 2019 ram after trying a couple other fixes and this worked great, Thanks a lot for the video!
I think you got the one thumbs down from someone that didn't like the fact you couldn't find your phillips head screwdriver.
Jk.
I took my '14 Ram in almost a year after I got it back to the dealer for this reason.
So from 2015 till now it's held up but now we're in the rainy season and I'm getting the leaking coming back.
Good information to know.
Joseph Murray Seems like on TH-cam there's always got to be someone that dislikes something just because. I'm happy to report I found my phillips shortly after this!
SHiBBY927 That's gr8
Thanks for the video.
My story goes like this;
Brake light out for the 3rd time in 5 years on my '14. The first time it was just normal wear and tear I suppose. The second time it was wet, the bulb had exploded, and water was in the lens, but none had made it into the cab. So, I put the new bulb in, and off to the dealer.
They then informed me it was a "known issue" and they "repaired" it. Little did I know, the "repair" was sealing...over top the original crap foam gasket...or, replaced the gasket, and put black CV goop on top. Sure worked! Never leaked again..but...here is the rub...I was expected to take it in every time the bulbs up there needed changing.
Flash forward to May 2019. Brake light bulb was gone again. So, no biggy, they are consumables and its part of routine maintenance...right? Well, I went to change it, and no joy. The lens would not budge. Keep in mind, I have fingers of steel and can peel bark with them, so I was a tad grumpy when the dealership suggested I "try harder"....maybe use a pry bar. Well, I have changed a "few" bulbs in my 49 years of driving, and never had to pry a lens off with a pry bar. So anyway, I figured If anyone was going to break the lens, it would be them, they agreed, and I made an appointment. They are decent folks, and I don't blame them for Chrysler-Fiats' design flaws or lack of concern. They are aware, and aren't any happier about it, because they get the brunt of grumpy owners at the desk.
So, I have a few days before my scheduled appointment..a few days to stew and youtube it.
I came across this video, and I must thank you for this. I got it done because of it.
I would just like to add that if yours is like mine..glued on by the dealer, it is a nasty 3 hour job, so wear coveralls, do it in an open space as it involves harmful fumes, and wear gloves for the messy bits...which is most of it. I used a rag, mineral spirits (I tried lighter fluid, but not as good, and do NOT use thinners) and small brass wire brush and ...patience. You want it looking and feeling like factory. Metal can scour and gouge which can affect the seal. And I can tell you, in my situation, they used lots of CV glue. So ya, it was 3 hours of my life I'll never get back ;-)
So, just my experience. final note...once you have it all shiny like-new, wipe it down, get all the old debris out of all the nooks and crannies...they have mineral spirits on them and could corrode the paint in places you don't want rust to start. Let it dry for about 15 minutes to evaporate, then take some polish and wipe it down, and reinstall.
Thanks again for the gasket hack!
Stay safe and enjoy your summer :-)
Thank you!!!!!! 8 bucks!!!!!! The crappy gaskets for the lights run 13 and up. Awesome fix!!!!!!!
Anytime! All credit goes to the guys over on Ramforum.com that originally came up with this fix. I just put it into video format to try and reach more owners.
I just put clear caulk from the bottom of the sides over the top down to the bottom corner side .The light pulls off with screws out it just takes a little cleaning to removes the old.I use alcohol wipes to clean it off then reapply if you have to change a bulb but I may give this a try .
Thank you for your time to put this on you tube. To anyone that may be getting a right brake light out but it is working, check your third brake light. This fix will help prevent this issue in the future. Thanks Again.
Great idea just did this about 26 min ago it’s been rainy here in Los Angeles
Thank you! I love the collective wisdom of TH-cam contributers. This solved my problem but i will add a warning. I drive a 2011 Ram Hemi Crew Cab and it didn't have the rubber gasket/seal as shown in this video. When i removed the light housing it had a foam seal (soaking wet with water around the bulbs!) that was a total bitch to scrape off. I'd driven to a mall to hide from the pouring rain and all i had was the philips screwdriver and the exacto knife. Took about 30 minutes of slicing, scraping, and cursing to get the foam and the glue off the backing plastic. But, the leak has gone, and i didn't need to go near the dealership. Thanks again.
My 14 Ram regular cab developed this problem today. Popped out the third brake light and sure enough a puddle standing in the light cavity with a trail of water running off to both sides. Went to Home Depot, found the weather strip right where you said it would be, in the back near the screen doors. I have applied the fix, thanks a million my friend!
No problem! Thank the guys who came up with this fix over at Ramforum.com!
is yours still holding up?
New ram owner here, looking through some forums and ran across your video. I’m gonna try this. Thanks man. I’m going through this issue now.
This method works on 5th Gen Rams as well. Never leaked until and replaced the bulbs. Just make sure the previous gasket and its adhesive is removed first. Test with a water hose, no leaks!
Good to know!
Thanks for this. My "new to me" 2015 Ram 2500 is back at the dealer for the second time in the past week to drain the swimming pool beneath the rear driver's seat. The first time they said they "reseated" the 3rd brakelight. If it comes back this time and they are no closer (this time they "Blew out the weep hole drain again") then I will probably give this a try. I actually have a bunch of this gasket stuff left over from installing my BAK Revolver.
Thanks.
Hope it works for you!
Thanks for this, I took mine and did this today. Though my OEM gasket wasn't deteriorated yet, I figured I'd replace too. Mine was moist and had water in it.. saved me mildew and grief lol.
Great video! I used this product on my 02 Chevy Silverado 3rd light and it worked perfectly. I had to cut the strip in half to make it work. You are the man! Thank you!!!
I have water in my truck now. 2009 Ram 1500. I was at my wits end and was about spend large to get it fixed at the dealer. This just makes sense. Will try the fix tomorrow, wish me luck and thanks for the helpful post
Hope it works for you. Be sure to check the screws and re-tighten them a little if needed once the new weatherstripping has settled. Just a little insurance to make sure you get a good proper seal.
it worked! Thanks, Im super happy. Now....how do I get rid of that musty moldy smell? Sigh...
MrSeaneboy m.carsdirect.com/car-maintenance/how-to-get-rid-of-a-car-mildew-smell
Thank you!
Just finished doing this mod to my 2010 Ram 2500. Now all we need is some rain here in Central Texas to test it! Thanks for taking the time to make this video for our benefit. God bless you!
Glad I could help! Hope this worked out for you!
My 09 the dealer gooped up with silicone and now my 14 is leaking after I replaced a bulb so thanks for this. This is a much better fix
Glad I could help! Not sure who came up with this fix originally, I saw it on Ramforum years ago, but I wanted to bring it out on video so more people could see it.
Thanks for this video! I just did this fix yesterday and it worked great!
Our 2014 Ram started leaking recently after several days of heavy rain. Dealer wanted $55 plus $20 labor to install new third brake light. We bought the MD Weatherseal you suggested and installed it today. The old gasket still had shiny paper attached to some of the sticky parts so it was never installed correctly. Thank you very much for sharing this video.
Anytime! Glad I could be of assistance!
I'm about to do this to my 2016. Trying to be proactive. From what I can see on my truck the actual problem is the lens itself is curved outward in the center and does not compress the gasket properly. I'm not sure if the lens is made that way purposely or it warped in the sun. Either way the cab is flat so the curved lens could never seat properly. Hopefully the thicker/wider seal will compensate for it.
I performed this repair last night. My Ram Limited had the rear window break a couple of years back and in the course of replacing the window I decided to leave the seats out, glad I did. The amount of water getting in was crazy and this "fix" took all of 15 minutes! This is easily the most cost effective improvement I have ever seen. Also, I had this same problem with an old 1997 F150, and it was exactly the same issue? I found the screws actually loose on my light, no doubt due to normal shrinkage of the original gasket. My guess is this has been leaking for years and had my seat been in I would have never noticed. The next project is installing a cabin filter. Dodge had a cut out ready for a cabin filter and elected to leave it out! This nickel and diming of the consumer on things that are so easily fixed, or so inexpensive to include, makes me realize why so many domestic manufacturers are struggling. Were it not for steep tariffs, nobody would put up with this.
It is a great little fix. RAM definitely should've properly remedied this issue years ago, it is my understanding this is an issue dating back to 3rd Gen models.
I have done the Cabin Air Filter mod on mine. I don't remember for sure, but I think on some of the later 2016 models, and the 2017-18 models they finally added the filter.
Annoying quirks for sure.
Just wanted to say thank you for this as I just did it on my
15 ram after getting staining on both corners in the back…also have some exhausters on order.
Had a blown 3rd brake light yesterday so I changed it and didn’t think about it and today we had a terrible rain storm. I get it my truck after work and notice my headliner was wet. I ran to Lowe’s and picked this up and put it on just now. Thanks for the video man I was about to get out the rtv lol. Hopefully this does the trick.
Hoping this fixed your issue. It's awesome to know this video has helped so many people. All the credit should go to the guys over on RAMForum.com that came up with it originally.
Great Video in explaining a problem and solution, thank you for sharing your knowledge and project. I need to stop water leaking into my 2005 GMC Sierra 1500 pickup truck passenger space; however, the cabin pressure vent [GM P/N - 15147611] is discontinued, but thankfully my vent is salvageable. I attempted to make my own cabin pressure vent gasket from a sheet of raw material, but I learned I selected the incorrect durometer rating - it was too hard for me to depress by hand - try, try again with neoprene rubber with a lower durometer rating. I also attempted to make my own third brake light gasket with VersaChem Clear Super Silicone to try to make a gasket - that failed to stop water leaking into my truck, so I ordered a third brake light gasket seal and that was an improvement, but water still leaks into my truck: I am essentially back to step one of isolating the point(s) of water entry. My problem areas include Cabin Air Pressure Vent & Customized Gasket, Sunroof Drain Tubes, Third Brake Light and Third Brake Light Gasket Seal and now I am wondering if it is the rear window. My efforts did successfully impede the amount of water leaking into my truck, but I still need stop it. I purchased caulk strip much like the 3M caulk strips from LMC Truck. I have been considering applying the strips on my third brake light, but are these strips capable of being removed easily? Once I know I have my water leak problem resolved I plan to replace my headliner - that requires removing the third brake light again. I plan to purchase a roll of this Auto & Marine Weather-seal and try that on the third brake light I am open to any recommendations, so if interested please visit my TH-cam channel videos th-cam.com/video/6z-NydYWzjA/w-d-xo.html
Did this today. Cheap fix. Scored some points with the wife as well. Thanks for the vid.
Anytime! Brownie points are a nice bonus!
Thank you! My 2014 Ram is leaking. I am going to do this! I really appreciate this tip! God bless
It has been raining a lot here. I have not had one drop of rain in the cabin, using this method. Thank you!
Many thanks!!
Thanks man i just noticed a leak in my 15 2500 today i was minutes from just throwing some rtv on it much better idea
Thank you for this video! My 09 ram has been leaking off and on for a while and I had no idea where it was coming from. I just went to Home Depot and got the weatherstripping. Super easy to do.
Anytime. Always glad to help out where I can!
Awesome Thanks so much!
Hey dude! Great video! I just got a 13 Ram 1500 and noticed a swimming pool under rear seat, passenger side. I purchased the same kit at Lowes and I peeled of old original squashed seal and put new one on! I also cleaned area where it will stick on with alcohol wipes. And area where it will install on vehicle too. I have lots of rain in forecast coming and will let you know results! Thanks again!
Dougie T Thanks! After you install it, be sure to go out and retighten the screws about 24hrs later. Just ensures that the gasket gets a proper seal.
Awesum Fix my man! 2 months later and swimming pool is closed! lol
Excellent video. Worked out excellent.fixed my leak on my 2011 ram 1500. Thanx
Thank you for the video. My 2011 Dodge Ram leaked and like you said the dealership used RTV and I could never remove it. My 2016 Ram is doing the same thing so I am going to use the fix you posted.
No problem Chuck, glad I could help! Be sure to test it for leaks after you get it all installed, and make sure to re-tighten the two screws that hold the light in place a day or two after you've got it reinstalled just to make sure the seal is nice and tight.
I don't know why the manufacturers don't just stop using bulbs. Secondly, I bought a LED 3rd brake light so I don't have to worry about bulbs burning out, then I installed it with supplied gasket then I ran a thick bead of clear silicone around the light and smoothed it out with a wet finger, also I filled screw holes with silicone as well. ** push down on the light a bit as you screw the light down so you don't crack the lens until snug.
Thank u.....on my way to home Depot now!!
Curtis Cook Anytime brother! Glad I could help!
It's not at home depot it's at Lowe's
Me too!
Bought mine at Home Depot. I think both Home Depot and Lowe's sell the stuff.
Lowe's had it for $8. Home Depot said they didn't sell it any more. Thanks for the video.
Thanks brotha! Just picked mine up at Home Depot,, had a freaking flood of water trapped under my rear passenger bucket storage
Glad I could be of assistance!
Have you had any water anymore? Did this do the trick? I got water in the bucket storage of my ram as well. I’m thinking of trying this .
Going to try this on the Morimoto X3B tail light.
The stock gasket sucks and rubber will work a shit ton better than the slim cheap foam they use.
I have a 2018. I noticed it started to smell funny and found my carpet wet underneath the rear seat. Im going to do this tomorrow early. Thanks for the advice Sir.
Did it work for you? I have water in the bucket storage as well.
F150s have this issue also. I'll be using this fix for mine. Thanks
You'd think these manufacturer's would get these things figured out. Cheaping out on little things can cost us consumers a lot of money.
Glad I could help. Best of luck, hope it fixed your issue as well.
Engineers design stuff to break so everybody makes money.
@@modernmoparsofiowammoia2834 I have heard this issue on all makes of trucks now. I wish they would just do away with the third break light!!!
How did it work for you has it leaked sense ? you cant buy the seal the dealer wants you to buy a new light and all $165.00 plus tax nuts if you ask me .I have a 2010 f150.
Thank you 🙏
I have a 2014 ram. I noticed the water yesterday. I was so mad. Just got the truck a month ago. I didn't think of the 3rd brake light cuz the water was on the right and left side of both back headrest. I looked and seen the contour of the truck would allow the water from the brake light to go where I seen it. Just put this stuff on my light. I hope that was my problem. Thanks for the video.
Dustin Skidmore No problem. Hope it helps. I would check the seals of your rear window as well just for good measure.
Modern Mopars of Iowa (MMOIA) Will do buddy thanks
Thanks for the information. My 2017 Big Horn has is leaking. Gonna try it out. 👍
Ok , l would like to offer my solution too. Change all light bulbs in third brake light housing , no more messages on dash. I hope this helps.
This works great!!
Worked great man. Thanks!
I think that's the problem with my 2014.
Last few months the truck has smelled moldy or old food.
Today water was pouring out of the back two corners of the headliner.
Ruined the baby seat soaked everything back there, leather, rugs, etc.
no one had the md stuff, so offered from Lowe's online. picked up something close from Home Depot by Friday King, only available in grey. the was dirt and grime behind it. problem is there are only two screws and the center bows out. No leaks now, but there was 3" of standing water under the seat and subwoofer area. Soaked it all up and waiting for it to dry out. Hoping for the best, dealer wasn't too corporative.
Dealer should be jumping to help you out, this is a very common issue with Ram trucks dating back to the 2006-2008 third generation ram trucks.
10-4. Thanks. Just wasnt sure if that was done purposely
You the man, girlfriend.
This worked great for me for about 3 years an now I'm back to having a water leak problem I've even went an bought a whole new oem lamp with new gasket put it on an still leaking I've been riding around with no back seat an carpet till I fix it. I love my cummins but geez dodge.
Been going strong on mine for something like 5-6 years now. No leaks. I'd just re-do it with the same gasket I used in this video and be sure to tighten it down well after re-applying.
Sorry for the late reply, you might check your rear window seals as well or your sunroof if you have one. The third brake light is usually the first suspect but it's not always the only thing that can cause leaks.
It turned out to be the rear cab vents behind the back seat.
Well I replaced the rear cab vents behind the seat that fixed then 2 days ago I go look in the back seat an there is a lake now. So I've replaced the 3rd break light, with black rtv silicone around the new gasket and replaced the rear cab vents worked great for 6 months now I'm back to taking the whole back seat apart to find the leak I have now. Love my truck but this is the 3rd time now dealing with this in 5 years.
Worked for me on my 2012 2500, couple of months now no water
do you have to remove the original seal or you put on top of the old seal? seen another video on here where the guy add it on top of the old one
So sorry for the late response, I'm not on here very often anymore. You definitely remove the old seal and any remaining adhesive entirely before placing the new gasket/seal on. I would not personally recommend just putting in on top of the old one.
I do same thing what u did ...thank u so much ;))) i hate use silicone .ram 2500 Cummins 2012
///Mariusz CUMMINS Diesel Power Glad to help out! Make sure to test it for leaks after you get it installed.
I have the same as you ,, did you get serious leakage in your drivers side rear passenger?
I actually had a slight leak back when I had my 2011 RAM and someone from Ramforum.com shared this fix. So after I got my 2016 RAM I did the fix, and noticed there wasn't really anything on youtube at the time about how to do this fix so I decided to share it with everyone. I'm glad I did! Seems to be helping a lot of people!
Modern Mopars of Iowa (MMOIA) worked for me
Any updates ? I bought a Recon 3rd break light i already know the seal will leak on it as others had the same issue with Recon 3rd break light just wanted to get a update to see if this is still working for you
(This is my other TH-cam Account). My 2016 is still going strong 5 years later. No signs of any kind of leaks.
@SHiBBY927 AWESOME..... looks like i will do this before i install my Recon 3rd break light
just did this today and it worked great. Couldn't find 5/16 by 19/32... 5/16 by 1/4 did the trick! $7 at home depot.
Omar Perez Awesome! Glad it worked for you (this is my other channel).
Thank and awesome fix!
All the credit to the guys at Ramforum.com who came up with this fix. I just wanted to put it out in video format to help my fellow ram owners!
I used the exact same gasket today, the 3rd brake light now has a bulge to it away from the body, I assume the gasket will make it up but I dont want to fill the cab with water . . . more.
William S. After install let it settle in for a day or two then go back and check the screws and retighten them if necessary. A lot of people on RAM Forum have used this same fix and I have yet to hear of any issues.
SHiBBY927 thank you
I didnt expect an issue, just wanted to make sure that I did it right. Thank you again for the video, seemed to hold water tight after yesterday.
William S. No problem!
My 2015 Ram just dumped water all over the back seat after a hard rain the other night. Never had this issue before. Thanks for the tip!
I am also concerned that the navigation antenna may be a source of leaking as well. Any issues known with those?
Sorry for the late reply. I know some guys on the forums have sealed around their sharkfin antennas with clear silicone. I don't know of any leaks having occurred from there off hand, but I suppose it couldn't hurt to put some extra sealant just in case.
thanks for the post !! Going to do this today on my 2013...Question - do you put the gasket back as well? (was gonna buy a new gasket too)...thanks
Nope I do not re-use the factory gasket, the factory gasket is the reason these lights leak to begin with. Just toss it and use the home depot one.
I have a 2011 mega cab that leaks through the speaker in the roof behind the driver's seat for some reason the third brake light does not leak at all what do you suppose the problem is with this?
Donald Malson I would say you've got a bad seal somewhere. Could be a window, or one of the roof seals.
I just did this and applied it over the gasket of my new led third brake light. Is it okay that it seems to stick out a little bit further than normal?
Me personally I'd of removed the original gasket, but it's up to you whether you want to do it that way or not.
Make sure to retighten your screws about 24hrs or so after reinstalling your third brake light. Let the gasket settle a bit and just make sure they're snug.
Test for leaks to be safe.
Hello. I did this just like you showed in your video, and there’s quite a bow in the center of the light. Did yours do that too? Also, you’ve never had any leakage at the two points where the two pieces come together?
Brett Negray Make sure to re-tighten the screws after a day or two. No leaks with mine. Some have managed to do one continuous piece of weather stripping if you're worried about two seperate pieces leaking. You can always take a jug of water and pour it on the light to test for leaks.
SHiBBY927 alright man thanks!!
any updates ? How's it holding on ?
Still doesn't leak.
Is it still holding up?
Responding from my main accpunt. I traded my 2016 in 2022. I bought that 2016 new so it lasted about 5 years with no leaks.
@@zclary923 awesome! Thanks so much for the reply
Just tried this and it didn’t work
Chevy/GMC has same issue
Anyone had issues with 2017 rams? I just got one and I'm not sure if dodge fixed this issue already
Corey Gibbons pretty sure it's the same thing on the 17s. Known issue on 2006-2017 models.
2006-2018 I should've said (Shibby is my other channel). Not sure if this issue will prevail on the 2019s, since that's a new generation of RAM truck, I hope they finally fixed this issue.
My 2017 Ram 1500 is doing it with 13,000 miles on it. Our 06 and 07 2500's did the same exact thing.
Can this been done on other trucks my 2003 chevy Silverado 2500 is leaking
I don't see why not. Could always try it and test for leaks.
Has anyone done this on an 2018 ram with high mount camera and cargo light? Just wondering before I try.
Hey how soon can I do the water test after installing this ??
I would do it after it sets. So about 24hrs after you initially reinstall, go out recheck the screws to make sure everything is properly tightened down and then try and test it for leaks.
Alright
Anyone know how to clear the "brake light out" message once this is fixed and the bulbs are replaced?
Apologies for the very late response, I don't often check this channel anymore unfortunately.
I think you can clear it in the EVIC, if you installed LED bulbs though you may need resistors as the draw on LEDs is less and even though they will work, the vehicle will still display the light out message unless you have resistors to trick it.
since this is a known problem, why is dodge not fixing these? Collierville Chrysler Dodge just charged us 61 bucks to replace the whole assembly.
I would email FCA and complain. Point out that this is a well known issue dating back to the 3rd Generation models. Link them this video.
Alternatively you could create an account on Ramforum.com and try to send a PM to the RAM Cares account on there.
I am so angry! This should be a recall mandatory repair!!!
I agree. Quite ridiculous it's been an issue as long as it has.
Yup this is crazy that you have to pay them to fix their mistake(s)
Don't know what I did wrong but did this exactly & had water under the rear seat after this mornings rain.
Try using one piece of strip for the whole gasket. Make sure to tighten the screws that secure the third brake light to the cab securely and re-tighten about 24hrs or so again afterward to let that weatherstripping properly settle in.
Also make sure to scrape away any remnants of the original gasket and clean with alcohol prior to adhering the new weatherstripping.
@@zclary923 That's why I'm confused, I used one piece, cleaned all old gasket off & cleaned with alcohol, cleaned opening on cab & screws are tight after being done for a week.
@@Bloomers731 what year is your truck? Wonder if maybe your leak is the rear window maybe, I've heard of leaks back there, I've also heard of sunroof equipped trucks leaking because of clogged drains.
@@zclary923 it's a 2016 without a sunroof. Not sure if it's the window I can see really light water marks in the corners of my headliner. Seems like it was more wet this time than before.
Maybe the vents a lot of rams have that issu as well
So, after 3 years, how's it holding up?
Not a single leak. Gotta change out a bulb in it soon so I'll be seeing how the gasket looks soon enough.
How is this holding up 3 years later?
Still holding up. No leaks whatsoever.
i replaced mine with this and ran a hose for about 5 minutes directly on the corners of the rear window just to make sure thats not where the leak was coming from first. Didnt see any water on the inside so i ran water directly on the third brake light and did not see any leaks. Question though... i didnt notice how you ran the seal with just the one strip along the bottom, i ran mine all the way around in one piece and butted them up on the bottom in the middle. think that matters?
Christopher Meeks I think you can do it either way and it works either way.
Anybody got some tips for cleaning off the waterline on the headliner around the light? :/
I would recommend taking it to a detailer, someone that has a heated extractor
.
the same thing happened to me. I have an appointment on Monday at the dealer and they want $122 to just diagnose the problem. my headliner is stained now and I have a funny feeling they are going to give the run around when I ask them to replace my headliner.
lowrider jimmy I hope you're under warranty. If not I would still contact RAM and ask them to pay for it. This is a very well known defect from the factory that dates all the way back to the 3rd Generation Dodge Ram trucks and has carried over to the 4th Generation. No way you should have to pay for that when so many people have had this issue. I'd be polite about it, point them to the RAM Forum where this issue and homebrew fix originates from. If they refuse to pay I'd file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.
Did what you said , dealership did silicone it , still leaked , but leaked worse since I did it your way three days after, had rain over night .maybe 1inch ...as I am mechanically inclined...
my 2017 is still leaking , even after silone all the way around
Might not be your 3rd Brake Light then. Try pouring some water and seeing if that's what's leaking. I have seen people who've had issues with leaks in the back glass with sliding rear windows. Could be a sunroof leak as well if you've got one of those. Leaks can be difficult to diagnose and fix.
Did you try this fix instead?
@@modernmoparsofiowammoia2834 nope. Just put more silicone amd looks like it stopped. There's so much of it , it will be a PITA to take that light off :)
@@Baldcurious Sorry for the late response, I don't get on here too often, but I would recommend this fix over silicone just for the simple fact that you are able to remove your light at anytime to replace bulbs as needed without having to reapply silicone. I have had this gasket on my truck for years now and still don't have any leaks and I have enough extra material to swap out and re-do the gasket if need be.
Hi, i have a 2006 mazda b3000 and my third brake light also leaks. i cant find a seal for my truck online. if i buy this type of adhesive ,would i need a smaller size than the one u mentioned for the dodge ram?
I can only speak to the RAM but I can't imagine why it wouldn't work on other vehicles. Could always try it, and then test for leaks.
Will this work for an f150? Same issue
Love Yourenergy Can't say for sure as I've never tried it on an F150 and I don't know of anyone that has. If you try it it's at your own risk, I think it's definitely plausible that it could work.
My recommendation is that should you try it on an F150, be sure to get a good seal, and test the third brake light after you've re-installed it by pouring water on it and thoroughly checking it for leaks.
Modern Mopars of Iowa (MMOIA) i tried it tonight. Tested it with a hose and seems ok. It was a little thicker than the previous gasket and is not exactly flush but seems to work so far. I'm with you...i didn't want sealant all around my light fixture. Thanks for your helpi man 👍
Love Yourenergy No problem. Be sure to go back and retighten the screws after 24-48 hours just to make sure that seal is nice and tight.
My brake light looks warped.
That could be possible, I'm sure if your truck sits out in the elements with time and the sun it could cause the plastics to warp. Might have to look into replacing that.
Same dam problem with gmc!!! These manufacturer's are terrible
Yeah it about takes an act of God to get them to finally do a recall.
First, I am huge fan of Ram trucks.
Are they perfect? Of course not. But they are very solid trucks with less recalls than other brands.
That said............ WTF RAM???? You have been aware of this problem since the 3rd generation, and it's STILL a problem??? And the fix for it would be to add a 3rd screw, or manufacture the light lens just a bit differently???
That is seriously embarrassing, Ram. Pull you heads out of your asses and FIX this ridiculously simple problem!!!!!!
I wholeheartedly agree.
See my video for the real leak. That is half a foot large. Yes 6” square. Its not the light
The third brake light is in fact a very common leak on the 3rd and 4th Gen RAM trucks. I put this video together from information on Ramforum.com thus is a well known issue with these lights and one that RAM themselves have acknowledged and even had a tech bulletin out for as to how to fix it.
That being said there are other spots that leak but the 3rd brake light is the easiest to fix and most common culprit there genius so don't come over here claiming this one is fake because that's not the case at all. The sheer amount of views and comments on this video, and a search of the ram forums are proof of that.
www.ramforumz.com/threads/3rd-brake-light-leak-fix.87346/
God damn... 2 minutes in and still babbling. Get to the point.
God damn... video is a total of five minutes long and has obviously helped a lot of people with a simple fix for an issue that can cost a lot to fix otherwise. Don't like it? Don't watch it. Unbunch your panties.
Do you have fingers to FF or just that slow?
No shit DCON. It’s annoying when people make videos and can’t get to the point.