2021-2023 Elantra & Elantra N Center Brake Light: US vs. Korea Built Part Guide
This guide covers the two different, non-interchangeable center high mount stop light assemblies for the 2021-2023 Hyundai Elantra and 2022-2023 Hyundai Elantra N.
- This is a complete LED assembly, not a replaceable bulb.
- There are two different parts: 92700-AA000 for Korean-built cars (VIN starts with 'K') and 92700-AB000 for US-built cars (VIN starts with '5'). They are not interchangeable.
- The US-built part is significantly more expensive than the Korean-built part, making VIN verification essential before purchase.
- A non-functional third brake light is a safety hazard and will likely cause a vehicle to fail a safety inspection.
Is This a Bulb or a Full Assembly?
The center high mount stop light on the 2021-2023 Hyundai Elantra and 2022-2023 Hyundai Elantra N is a complete, sealed LED lamp assembly. It does not use a replaceable bulb. If the light stops working, the entire assembly must be replaced. This is different from many older vehicles where you could simply swap out a small bulb.
Compatibility Warning: There are two different parts for these vehicles, and they are not interchangeable. One is for vehicles built in the USA, and the other is for vehicles built in Korea. You must verify your vehicle's manufacturing location before ordering a replacement.
How to Find Your Vehicle's Manufacturing Location
The easiest way to determine where your Elantra was built is by checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN is a 17-character code found on a sticker in the driver's side door jamb and also on a plate at the base of the windshield on the driver's side.
- If the first character of your VIN is a 'K', your vehicle was manufactured in Korea.
- If the first character of your VIN is a '5', your vehicle was manufactured in the USA (at the Montgomery, Alabama plant).
You can also use the free VIN decoder provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to confirm the build plant and country.
| Manufacturing Location | VIN Starts With | OEM Part Number |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 5 | 92700-AB000 |
| Korea | K | 92700-AA000 |
Symptoms of Failure
The most common symptom of a failing center high mount stop light is straightforward: the light does not turn on when you press the brake pedal. Since this is an LED unit, you might also experience other symptoms leading up to total failure:
- Flickering Light: The light may flicker or flash intermittently when the brake is applied.
- Dim Light: Some or all of the LEDs in the assembly may become dim, providing less light than normal.
- Partial Failure: Only a section of the LED strip may light up.
If your main brake lights work but the center light does not, the problem is almost certainly the lamp assembly itself or its direct wiring connector. 🎬 Watch: How to troubleshoot the high-mounted brake light warning message. If all brake lights fail simultaneously, the issue is more likely a blown fuse or a faulty brake light switch located near the brake pedal.
Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Hyundai or the NHTSA that address failures of the center high mount stop light for the 2021-2023 Elantra or 2022-2023 Elantra N. While other recalls exist for these models concerning seat belt pretensioners and rearview cameras, the third brake light has not been the subject of a widespread campaign.
Buying a Used Center High Mount Stop Light
Since a new OEM assembly can be costly—especially for US-built models—a used OEM part is an excellent alternative. Aftermarket copies of this specific assembly are not common, making recycled OEM parts the best value.
What to Check Before Buying:
- Verify the Part Number: This is the most critical step. Ensure the used part number (92700-AB000 or 92700-AA000) matches the needs of your vehicle's manufacturing location. A seller should be able to provide this or the VIN of the donor vehicle.
- Inspect the Lens: Check photos carefully for any cracks, deep scratches, or hazing on the red lens. While minor scuffs are cosmetic, cracks can allow moisture inside, which will destroy the internal electronics.
- Check the Housing and Mounting Points: Ensure the black plastic housing is intact and that none of the mounting tabs are broken. This is essential for a secure, rattle-free installation.
- Examine the Electrical Connector: Look for any signs of corrosion, melted plastic, or bent pins on the connector. A clean connector is crucial for a reliable connection.
Replacement Difficulty and Cost
Replacing the center high mount stop light assembly is a moderately easy DIY job for someone comfortable with removing interior trim panels.
- Difficulty: 2 out of 5
- Estimated Time: 0.5 - 1 hour
- Tools Needed: Basic trim removal tools, possibly a socket set.
The general procedure involves accessing the light from inside the vehicle's trunk or cabin. You will likely need to remove the rear package tray trim panel that sits below the rear windshield to expose the underside of the light assembly, its fasteners, 🎬 See how to remove the rear crossbar to access the light. and the electrical connector.
Cost Comparison
| Part Type | Cost (US-Built: 92700-AB000) | Cost (Korea-Built: 92700-AA000) |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $150 - $235 | $36 - $55 |
| Used OEM | $70 - $120 (Est.) | $30 - $50 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 | |
Pro Tip: Given the significant price difference, double-check your VIN before ordering. Accidentally buying the expensive US-built part for a Korean-built car is a costly mistake, and buying the cheaper Korean part for a US-built car will result in a part that doesn't fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just replace the bulb in my 2022 Elantra's third brake light?
No. For the 2021-2023 Elantra and Elantra N, the center high mount stop light is a sealed LED unit. The entire assembly must be replaced if it fails.
Why is the part for the US-built Elantra so much more expensive?
Pricing for OEM parts can vary dramatically based on the supply chain, manufacturing plant, and volume. While the exact reason is internal to Hyundai, the search results clearly show that the US-made part (92700-AB000) has a much higher list price than the Korean-made part (92700-AA000).
Will a bad third brake light cause my car to fail a safety inspection?
Yes, in most jurisdictions a non-functional center high mount stop light will cause your vehicle to fail a mandatory safety inspection. It is a required piece of safety equipment.
Does this part fit the Elantra N model? 🎬 Watch this vlog to see what it takes to remove the trunk brace.
Yes, this CHMSL assembly fits both the standard 2021-2023 Hyundai Elantra and the 2022-2023 Hyundai Elantra N, but you must still verify the manufacturing location to get the correct part number.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 92700-AA000 92700-AB000
Sealed LED Lamp Assembly
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Hyundai Elantra:
- Hyundai Elantra N:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is This a Bulb or a Full Assembly?
- How to Find Your Vehicle's Manufacturing Location
- Symptoms of Failure
- Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls
- Buying a Used Center High Mount Stop Light
- What to Check Before Buying:
- Replacement Difficulty and Cost
- Cost Comparison
- Frequently Asked Questions
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