Brake Light Flasher

noregret4life · 07-21-2006

I know what you are all thinking... when is he ever going to stop!

So let me explain. For many years i have been interested in cars, and for even longer have been a tech junky. I've been taking things appart and fixing since i could remember... I take after my grandfather. So now that i gained some knowledge, all these projects have been floating around in my mind for a very long time. Now that i have a car i thought i could only dream of... i am making each project a reality, one by one.

But enough about that... The new mod i am researching is a Brake light flasher, that will pulse the brake lights, or just the center brake light a few times then go to steady on.

Reason = i was rearended 2 times when i had a VW Passat. and all those jerks we talked about on the other thread that just can't control their tailgating.

I inquired with 3 manufacturers who make such plug in modules, on their compatibility to our wiring systems.

#1 major concern is the "Lighting Computer" in our cars. It is very sensitive to any changes in electrical work with any of the lights, and we wouldn't want to see the "Bulb Out" error

Will keep you all posted!

**Ynot** · 07-21-2006

Alroumi is our official post whore, and you are our official mod-whore, I'm just an all around whore when it comes to a pretty women.

Keep them coming, I enjoy reading all of your creative mod ideas.

**etyu** · 07-21-2006

I thought MB has this in the works but the flashing brake light would occur only when the computer senses a "panic" braking activity.

Anyway, I am interested in this feature, if the mod is not too complex. Keep us posted.

I wonder if a slight change in the software would all that would be needed.

noregret4life · 07-21-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by etyu

I thought MB has this in the works but the flashing brake light would occur only when the computer senses a "panic" braking activity.

Anyway, I am interested in this feature, if the mod is not too complex. Keep us posted.

I wonder if a slight change in the software would all that would be needed.

Perhaps it may be a software upgrade in the future... however, i have a strange feeling that we won't be getting a taste of that on the R171 for a while... if anything they will roll it out on the S-Class and E-Class then the rest.

And if it is a software upgrade in the future, you can always remove the module, and use it to flash your Christmas lights

Wiring would be simple. (this is from an actual module already on the market)

Black = Ground
Red = to power wire in our harness
White = To brake light
Thats it!

There is also one out there with a programmable feature, where you can select the # of flashes, and flash rate...

**etyu** · 07-21-2006

Can't wait for the tutorial. Do you need one module for each light? Will it work on LED's?

DansSlk · 07-21-2006

noregret go for it mate being inventive never hurt anybody

You are right about the light not being on MB priority list for the 171 but etyu also has a point the E-Class hardware is identical to our cars and a SW upgrade would be all the is necessary but for the moment a module seems like the best bet.

Just where does this module plug into the cars harness do you know if its just before the lights, the module would kill all the tail lights if it was connected to the SAM but the third brake light sounds like a real good idea as it only activates with the brakes and it will be the easiest to mod.

Keep us posted please i would like a module if its for the third light.

**etyu** · 07-21-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by noregret4life

There is also one out there with a programmable feature, where you can select the # of flashes, and flash rate...

I'm interested in one that may flash the center brake lamp for 3 or 4x and then constant for as long as the brake pedal is engaged. Any links or part number?

noregret4life · 07-21-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by etyu

I'm interested in one that may flash the center brake lamp for 3 or 4x and then constant for as long as the brake pedal is engaged. Any links or part number?

I think the idea for only the center brake light is the best way to go. The more i thought about it, the less i wanted my car to look like a christmas tree blinking.

I have contacted the 3 people offering these modules. And don't want to start throwing out part numbers just yet. Trying to keep these threads filled with only "Usefull" material.

If it is for the center brake light, it would only be 1 module. The connection would be "In-Line" meaning, you disconnect the (+) and pass it through the module. Similar to the Vario Roof module.

Yes, it does control LEDs along with any other bulb you can think of.

As soon as i hear back from these people, i will post further info, so stay tuned!

DansSlk · 07-21-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by noregret4life

I think the idea for only the center brake light is the best way to go. The more i thought about it, the less i wanted my car to look like a christmas tree blinking.

I have contacted the 3 people offering these modules. And don't want to start throwing out part numbers just yet. Trying to keep these threads filled with only "Usefull" material.

If it is for the center brake light, it would only be 1 module. The connection would be "In-Line" meaning, you disconnect the (+) and pass it through the module. Similar to the Vario Roof module.

Yes, it does control LEDs along with any other bulb you can think of.

As soon as i hear back from these people, i will post further info, so stay tuned!

noregret,
the brake light sounds like the best option as you pointed out the Lighting Computer wont like the power being cut i have never seen anybody complain the car was saying the light was out but the WIS says it is checked for function if the module could switch the power to a resistor or something then the computer would be none the wiser and no errors at all.

Hope that makes sense mate.

Dan

Dan

noregret4life · 07-21-2006

Few questions on different options for those interested: Keep in mind installation is the same no matter what you answer below (3 wires to connect)

Yes/No

1. Is it important for the module to flash a specific # of times every time, or will it be ok if it varies between 4-9 flashes before the steady on?

2. Would you want a programmable module where you can set a custom flash pattern and flash rate for a higher price (reasonable)? (price not yet determined)

3. Is it important for the module to have this feature: first time you hit the brakes, it flashes the brake light, then if you hit the brake within 20 sec. again, it does not flash, or reduces the # of flashes > this is for stop & go traffic.

4. VS. the feature in Q3. will it be ok if it flashes the brakes 3 times, then steady on EVERY time you hit the brakes, in traffic, and all?

Answer Yes or No
1.
2.
3.
4.

**etyu** · 07-21-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by noregret4life

Few questions on different options for those interested: Keep in mind installation is the same no matter what you answer below (3 wires to connect)

Yes/No

1. Is it important for the module to flash a specific # of times every time, or will it be ok if it varies between 4-9 flashes before the steady on?

2. Would you want a programmable module where you can set a custom flash pattern and flash rate for a higher price (reasonable)? (price not yet determined)

3. Is it important for the module to have this feature: first time you hit the brakes, it flashes the brake light, then if you hit the brake within 20 sec. again, it does not flash, or reduces the # of flashes > this is for stop & go traffic.

4. VS. the feature in Q3. will it be ok if it flashes the brakes 3 times, then steady on EVERY time you hit the brakes, in traffic, and all?

Answer Yes or No
1.
2.
3.
4.

1. yes
2. no
3. yes
4. yes, my personal preference.

noregret4life · 07-21-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by DansSlk

noregret,
the brake light sounds like the best option as you pointed out the Lighting Computer wont like the power being cut i have never seen anybody complain the car was saying the light was out but the WIS says it is checked for function if the module could switch the power to a resistor or something then the computer would be none the wiser and no errors at all.

Hope that makes sense mate.

Dan

Dan

Dan, Makes perfect sense. I delt with resistors for my LED bulb install. And still have some left over. I do not want to follow that path of and additional bypass into a resistor... but lets see where my research takes me.

I neet to pop open the boot lining on the lid and check the a volt meter what we are dealing with on the center brake light over the weekend.

DansSlk · 07-21-2006

noregret,
Glad it makes sense fair enough about the resistor i am just thinking of ways to trick the computer since there is no way to over-ride the bulb warning system and having the bulb out warning come on whenever i brake will get boring, maybe something internal inside the unit could provide the resistance so you would not need to wire a separate out.

I will be very interested in your findings mate

good luck

Dan

DansSlk · 07-21-2006

I checked with AMG manufacture and they said you can add the brake force sensitive flashing lights via them but it has to be fitted at AMG so thats out of the question for most of us and its bound to be more expensive then noregret's module anyway.
Just thought i would post it in so we know it is possible

noregret4life · 07-21-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by DansSlk

I checked with AMG manufacture and they said you can add the brake force sensitive flashing lights via them but it has to be fitted at AMG so thats out of the question for most of us and its bound to be more expensive then noregret's module anyway.
Just thought i would post it in so we know it is possible

Well i feel that LEDs povide very little resistance shown on the lighting computer. So as long as there is some indication of a closed ciruit, i think we may get away without a resistor.

I have no problem snapping a resistor on as well. very easy to do.

But i guess only time will tell once i check it out in the trunk this weekend.
I'll post as soon as i have had a look at it.

Thanks for the info Dan.

DansSlk · 07-21-2006

You are right on the low resistance mate i am not sure how sensitive the computer is sorry i guess time will tell.
Have you got the cover on the trunk lid off before i was replacing the licence plate lights and i broke the cover removing it WIS says remove the clips and push forward and pull i guess i did not push enough and the clips broke.

I look forward to your report noregret and good luck!

noregret4life · 07-21-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by DansSlk

You are right on the low resistance mate i am not sure how sensitive the computer is sorry i guess time will tell.
Have you got the cover on the trunk lid off before i was replacing the licence plate lights and i broke the cover removing it WIS says remove the clips and push forward and pull i guess i did not push enough and the clips broke.

I've had it off for the Rear Plate Cam install. I think by now, i have removed every panel in the trunk at one point.

and the front foot wells, and under the carpets, and behind the seats...

yeh... i've been around

But thanks for the tip though.

DansSlk · 07-21-2006

I must have been editing my post as yours went up so i just want to say good luck to you mate and i wish you all the best.

Keep us posted i look forward to the report

07-21-2006	#1 (permalink)
noregret4life Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: NJ Vehicle: '05 SLK350 Posts: 1,092 Country: Thanks: 1 Thanked 17 Times in 11 Posts	Brake Light Flasher I know what you are all thinking... when is he ever going to stop! So let me explain. For many years i have been interested in cars, and for even longer have been a tech junky. I've been taking things appart and fixing since i could remember... I take after my grandfather. So now that i gained some knowledge, all these projects have been floating around in my mind for a very long time. Now that i have a car i thought i could only dream of... i am making each project a reality, one by one. But enough about that... The new mod i am researching is a Brake light flasher, that will pulse the brake lights, or just the center brake light a few times then go to steady on. Reason = i was rearended 2 times when i had a VW Passat. and all those jerks we talked about on the other thread that just can't control their tailgating. I inquired with 3 manufacturers who make such plug in modules, on their compatibility to our wiring systems. #1 major concern is the "Lighting Computer" in our cars. It is very sensitive to any changes in electrical work with any of the lights, and we wouldn't want to see the "Bulb Out" error Will keep you all posted!

07-21-2006	#2 (permalink)
Ynot Founding Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Colorado Vehicle: 06' MBZ SLK Posts: 2,795 Country: Thanks: 135 Thanked 35 Times in 30 Posts	Alroumi is our official post whore, and you are our official mod-whore, I'm just an all around whore when it comes to a pretty women. Keep them coming, I enjoy reading all of your creative mod ideas. __________________ 06' SLK 350, Iridium/Ash all pkgs. 6-spd, 19" DCR. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts.

07-21-2006	#3 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,279 Country: Thanks: 376 Thanked 277 Times in 168 Posts	I thought MB has this in the works but the flashing brake light would occur only when the computer senses a "panic" braking activity. Anyway, I am interested in this feature, if the mod is not too complex. Keep us posted. I wonder if a slight change in the software would all that would be needed. __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant.*, EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, bilateral rear fog lamps enabled.

07-21-2006	#5 (permalink)
etyu Founding Member #2 / Ambassador Of Good Will Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Orange County, CA Vehicle: 2008 SLK 55 Posts: 5,279 Country: Thanks: 376 Thanked 277 Times in 168 Posts	Can't wait for the tutorial. Do you need one module for each light? Will it work on LED's? __________________ *Eddy* To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Pewter/Beige, PIII package, Airscarf, Hands-Free Communication System, Lighting package Designo Black Leather Cover on e-brake handle, ( To view links or images in signatures your post count must be 5 or greater. You currently have 0 posts. Bill T), SmartTop v1.0, Kleyman 3BFM (NoRegret Custom), Green Air Filters, *Mod. R170 ant.*, EuroClear sidemarkers w/PIAA PlasmaIon lamps, chromed front & rear turn indicator lamps, PIAA SuperPlasmaGTX front parking lamps, bilateral rear fog lamps enabled.

07-21-2006	#6 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	noregret go for it mate being inventive never hurt anybody You are right about the light not being on MB priority list for the 171 but etyu also has a point the E-Class hardware is identical to our cars and a SW upgrade would be all the is necessary but for the moment a module seems like the best bet. Just where does this module plug into the cars harness do you know if its just before the lights, the module would kill all the tail lights if it was connected to the SAM but the third brake light sounds like a real good idea as it only activates with the brakes and it will be the easiest to mod. Keep us posted please i would like a module if its for the third light. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

07-21-2006	#10 (permalink)
noregret4life Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: NJ Vehicle: '05 SLK350 Posts: 1,092 Country: Thanks: 1 Thanked 17 Times in 11 Posts	Few questions on different options for those interested: Keep in mind installation is the same no matter what you answer below (3 wires to connect) Yes/No 1. Is it important for the module to flash a specific # of times every time, or will it be ok if it varies between 4-9 flashes before the steady on? 2. Would you want a programmable module where you can set a custom flash pattern and flash rate for a higher price (reasonable)? (price not yet determined) 3. Is it important for the module to have this feature: first time you hit the brakes, it flashes the brake light, then if you hit the brake within 20 sec. again, it does not flash, or reduces the # of flashes > this is for stop & go traffic. 4. VS. the feature in Q3. will it be ok if it flashes the brakes 3 times, then steady on EVERY time you hit the brakes, in traffic, and all? Answer Yes or No 1. 2. 3. 4.

07-21-2006	#13 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	noregret, Glad it makes sense fair enough about the resistor i am just thinking of ways to trick the computer since there is no way to over-ride the bulb warning system and having the bulb out warning come on whenever i brake will get boring, maybe something internal inside the unit could provide the resistance so you would not need to wire a separate out. I will be very interested in your findings mate good luck Dan __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

07-21-2006	#14 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	I checked with AMG manufacture and they said you can add the brake force sensitive flashing lights via them but it has to be fitted at AMG so thats out of the question for most of us and its bound to be more expensive then noregret's module anyway. Just thought i would post it in so we know it is possible __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening. Last edited by DansSlk; 07-21-2006 at 06:12 PM.

07-21-2006	#16 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	You are right on the low resistance mate i am not sure how sensitive the computer is sorry i guess time will tell. Have you got the cover on the trunk lid off before i was replacing the licence plate lights and i broke the cover removing it WIS says remove the clips and push forward and pull i guess i did not push enough and the clips broke. I look forward to your report noregret and good luck! __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

07-21-2006	#18 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	I must have been editing my post as yours went up so i just want to say good luck to you mate and i wish you all the best. Keep us posted i look forward to the report __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

07-21-2006	#19 (permalink)
cyberdrakon Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: SoCal, USA Vehicle: SLK55 2006 Other Toys: 560SEC 1990, CLK500 2005