Close Brake Plus (Pulse): A Smarter Way to Help Prevent Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions remain one of the most common types of accidents on the road, often caused by distracted or delayed reactions from drivers behind you. Brake Plus, also commonly known as Pulse®, is a simple yet effective braking enhancement designed to help reduce those risks by making your braking more noticeable at critical moments. Brake Plus is a dealer-installed or aftermarket rear-end deterrent available for many Subaru vehicles. Rather than changing how your brakes function mechanically, the system focuses on driver awareness–specifically, the attention of the driver behind you.
How Brake Plus Works
When you press the brake pedal, Brake Plus causes the high-mounted third brake light to flash rapidly four times before returning to a solid glow. This brief pulsing effect happens instantly and is designed to draw attention more effectively than a steady brake light alone. To prevent distraction or annoyance in heavy traffic, the system is programmed to activate only once per braking event and no more than once every five seconds. This ensures the alert remains noticeable without becoming repetitive during stop-and-go driving. The system operates through a small electric module connected to the third brake light. Once installed, it works automatically–no driver input or adjustments needed.
Why a Pulsing Brake Light Matters
Human attention is naturally drawn to motion and change. A flashing or pulsing light is easier for the brain to register than a static one, especially when a following driver is distracted, fatigued, or momentarily looking away. Studies and real-world testing referenced by safety researchers suggest that pulsing brake lights can improve reaction times and may reduce rear-end collisions by as much as 40%. By giving tailing drivers an extra fraction of a second to respond, Brake Plus can help prevent sudden impacts before they happen.
Designed for Everyday Driving
One of the key advantages of Brake Plus is that it enhances safety without changing the driving experience. The system:
- Activates automatically when braking
- Only flashes briefly to avoid distraction
- Does not affect brake performance or pedal feel
- Requires no maintenance after installation
Because it operates independently of vehicle speed, it provides benefits whether you're slowing down on the highway or stopping unexpectedly on city streets.
Not the Same as Subaru Factory Safety Systems
It's important to note that Brake Plus is not part of Subaru's factory-installed EyeSight® safety technologies. It is entirely separate from features such as Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB), Brake Assist (BA), and Pre-Collision Braking. While those systems help your vehicle respond to hazards, Brake Plus focuses on alerting the driver behind you–adding an extra layer of passive safety that complements existing technology.
A Simple Upgrade with Real-World Benefits
Brake Plus is a small addition that can make a meaningful difference in everyday driving. Available at Shingle Springs Subaru in Shingle Springs, CA, this system enhances rear-end awareness by making your braking more noticeable at the moments it matters most. By improving reaction time for drivers behind you, Brake Plus helps add an extra layer of protection for you, your passengers, and everyone sharing the road–without changing how your vehicle drives or feels.