I have always been interested in having a blinking third brake light–the top center strip that uses LEDs. Quickly flashing it a few times when first braking catches people’s attention (you know–the ones blabbing on their phones and playing with their ipods) and increases their reaction time, reducing your chances of being rear-ended. Some car brands have them built-in and if made ideally they will flash quickly a few times then stay solid so as not to be annoying.
Many MINIs in the area have installed kits that flash the brake light, I assume using the hockey puck kit that Ian mentioned on his site long ago. I however found this to flash too slow, too many times, and for too long, so it was annoying. In fact, I often found myself behind someone with one of these on MINI runs and after 15 minutes or so I wanted to rear end them just to make it stop! 😉
So I was very pleased a few weeks ago when GoMINIGo, makers of the best glovebox organizer, announced on NAM that they were introducing their Third Brake Light PULSAR. I sent a few PMs back and forth to be sure it flashed quicker and shorter, and once they posted this video I was sure it was better than the other. The price was right at $25 so I took my chances and ordered one.
I installed the Pulsar tonight and am much happier with it than what I’ve seen on others’ MINIs. I would still prefer it a little bit quicker flashing and shorter delay till solid, but it is at least three times faster than the hockey puck kit, and should therefore be three times less annoying. I only wish that these did not re-flash if you hit your brakes again in the next several seconds in case you are driving in a spot that needs braking often (that would be hard to do as it only has power when the brakes are on). But for the cheap price, tiny size, and easy installation, the GoMINIGo 3rd brake light pulsar is a safety mod that could pay off big time. This means YOU, Dr. Doogie!