The light in bumper can be used as a brake light. I have developed a jumper kit that has a diode soldered into the wire so you can use the rear foglight if you want and I have hooked this up in about 20 2005 MINI's so far. You must use a jumper wire with a diode no way around it. Also, only works on MINI's built after 14 October 2004. For 2005 MINI's built prior to 14 October 2004, I have built a harness with the OEM plug and connections to hook up a factory light in the rear bumper (brake or reverse, your choice) with 4 feet of wire allowing the harness to be connected to the tail connections at the tail light. I believe that the light is much better than that stupid black cover. For additional information and costs I can be reached at
minirolls@msn.com.