Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Morgan Plus Four, Supersport & Plus Six (CX & CXV Generation Vehicles) Brake light carbuncle

Has anyone modified their Morgan to remove the awful brake light that sticks up over the spare wheel?

It not only only looks horrible but is blocked if you have a case on the rack. On my previous car there were LED strips built into the hood which looked so much better. Will it pass an MOT if I just remove it?

The following written by the editor on Honest John. “ In respect of the MoT test, a high-level third brake light is considered optional but if one is fitted and connected it must work, so it is possible that the police could stop and fine a driver for a non-functioning third brake light as it does not meet the regulations.”

From what I have come across, even if it is an original fitment, you can remove it without risk of MOT failure, as long as your other two brake lights work.. To take it further, if you simply disconnect it and tell the tester that it is disconnected, he is obliged to believe you and still pass it.
The only failure is if it is in place, connected and doesn't work due to perhaps a wiring fault or blown bulb.

A bit of a stretch just disconnecting wiring Doug, for many testers I would imagine. Rules are if it's there it should work so complete removal only.

FWIW Gary whilst following John V6 the other day I noticed his cobra repeater far more than his main brake lights. Could be because his Roadster like mine has side lights on continuously so not such a noticeable difference in intensity, in daylight at least.

On every trad I've owned I've always taken it off. I presume it's the same fitment, 4 big wood screws and a plastic electrical connector. I always wrapped the end of the plastic bit in insulation tape and poked it under the rear panel.
I accept why they're there and I see the benefit......however.....it's an ugly thing and lazy design....imho....
Take it off........NOW...!😁

Julian! Many thanks. I may give it a try

I agree Richard, but I saw that in more than one place when I googled. It seems to be based on the fact that the third brake light is not a legal necessity, unlike the normal brake lights. However, I can see the arguments developing with the MOT tester!

As a side, human nature is interesting, is it not?
We have some who spend lots of money improving their headlights, not just to see where they are going but so often said, to improve the chances of being seen by other road users.
On the other hand, a device already fitted on the rear to improve the chances of being seen when you brake…get removed.
No criticism; just saying. 🤔

I too thought it looked ugly when I got the car, but on balance I reckon the safety-over-aesthetics wins. With the luggage rack fitted it is still visible, but I agree that it becomes completely obscured by a case. Anyhow the good news is that it is dead easy to remove.

I have fitted a second removable light that goes onto the suitcase. I fitted Superseal connectors to the lead to the “Cobra’s Head” light so I can disconnect it and plug in the other light. The light was an LED one from Carbuildersolutions. I mounted it on a short length of thin hardwood as a base and teak oiled it. I simply strap this on using cheap ratchet straps. It did involve getting access to the existing light connector that is behind the plastic panel beneath the spare wheel. A bit of a fiddle moving that panel but just took care. I extended the wires so the new waterproof connector was accessible. I just tuck the excess wire down out of the way behind the spare wheel. I used it first last month on a trip to Woburn using a suitcase. Simple to swop light connections, only takes seconds.
I’ve just got leather luggage straps so will modify the light to use them instead of ratchet straps.
I’ll get a couple of photos to post.
Just to add that the car is a 2023 Plus Four. Some CX cars have high level lights built into the hood instead. Mine doesn’t.
I used to use a Bootbag not suitcase and that was low enough to not obscure the Cobra’s Head light.