Find HS Code and trade information for brake light base

Brake Light Base

A brake light base is a component of a vehicle’s braking system, serving as the housing and electrical connector for the brake light bulb. It facilitates the illumination of the brake lights when the brake pedal is depressed, alerting following drivers to the vehicle's deceleration.

Material

Brake light bases are typically constructed from:

• Plastic: Most commonly thermoplastic materials like Polypropylene (PP) or Polycarbonate (PC) due to their heat resistance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Metal: Some bases incorporate metal components, particularly for the electrical contacts and heat dissipation, often brass or steel.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a brake light base is to:

• Secure the Bulb: Holds the brake light bulb firmly in place.
• Electrical Connection: Provides a reliable electrical connection between the vehicle's wiring system and the brake light bulb.
• Heat Resistance: Withstands the heat generated by the bulb during operation.
• Moisture Protection: Offers some degree of protection against moisture and debris.

Function

The brake light base functions as an intermediary between the brake light switch and the bulb. When the driver applies the brakes:

1. The brake pedal activates the brake light switch.
2. The switch completes an electrical circuit.
3. Electricity flows through the vehicle's wiring to the brake light base.
4. The base transmits the electricity to the brake light bulb, causing it to illuminate.

Usage Scenarios

Brake light bases are essential for all motor vehicles equipped with a hydraulic braking system. They are used in:

• Rear Lights: Housing the brake lights on the rear of cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles.
• High-Mount Stop Light (Third Brake Light): Located in the center of the vehicle, typically on the rear window or roof.
• Trailers & RVs: Ensuring braking signals are visible on towed vehicles.

Common Types

Brake light bases are categorized by bulb type and vehicle application:

• Single Contact Base: Designed for bulbs with a single filament, used for standard brake light functionality. (e.g., 1156, 7440)
• Dual Filament Base: Accommodates bulbs with two filaments, often used for combined tail/brake light functions. (e.g., 1157, 7443)
• Bayonet Base: Features a twist-lock mechanism for bulb retention.
• Wedge Base: Uses a simple push-and-twist method for bulb installation.
• Socket Assemblies: Pre-wired assemblies including the base, socket, and connector, for simplified replacement.
• LED Specific Bases: Designed to accommodate LED brake light bulbs, often with heat sinks and polarity considerations.

Brake light bases are components related to electrical signaling equipment used for motor vehicles. Based on the provided information, the following HS codes may be applicable:

• 8512.90.20.00: This HS code covers parts of signaling equipment. Specifically, it includes electrical lighting or signaling equipment (excluding articles of heading 8539) used for cycles or motor vehicles, and parts thereof. The subheading .20 specifically refers to parts of signaling equipment. The total tax rate is 57.5%, comprised of a 2.5% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.
• 8512.90.90.00: This HS code also covers parts of signaling equipment, but categorizes them as "Other" parts. This includes electrical lighting or signaling equipment (excluding articles of heading 8539) used for cycles or motor vehicles, and parts thereof. The subheading .90 covers other parts. The total tax rate is 57.5%, comprised of a 2.5% base tariff, a 25.0% additional tariff, and a 30% additional tariff effective after April 2, 2025.

It is important to note that both 8512.90.20.00 and 8512.90.90.00 have the same tax rate. The distinction between the two likely depends on the specific characteristics of the brake light base and its classification as a specific part of signaling equipment versus other parts.