Reverse lights not working. common problem?

130,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
BLACKBOY454
  • MEMBER
  • 162 POSTS
just realized a few nights ago that my reverse lights are not working. my brother had made the observation. and i was wondering if there is an easy way to check what it is without pulling any wiring out from where it belongs. or if this is a common problem.. i am in minnesota and i dont always have access to an indoor area to work on my car without freezing.
Nov 20, 2011 at 9:22 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,248 POSTS
There is switch on the transmission that actuates the lights. Before jumping to that, make sure the bulbs are good. THey may have just burned out
Nov 20, 2011 at 9:28 PM
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
Check fuse in undehood junction block 10am B/U and B/U switch is on the tranny

Nov 20, 2011 at 9:39 PM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
Just to add to this one hey blackboy454 long time no talk if you already checked the fuse and blubs the most common reason i have seen for inop reverse lights is the back up switch right below the master cylinder on top of the shift tower.Turn the key to the run position unplug the switch jump it with a paper cliper.If the lights come on replace the switch.
Nov 21, 2011 at 8:53 AM
Avatar
BLACKBOY454
  • MEMBER
  • 162 POSTS
hello again louie. car is running great. no issues, aside from a loose pos terminal the other day causing everything to die but problem easily found and solved. i have yet to check fuses or anything for that matter due to a busy work schedule. but now i have 3 things to check out. thanks
Nov 21, 2011 at 9:30 PM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
Your welcome anytime keep me posted its probably the back up switch.
Nov 21, 2011 at 9:39 PM
Avatar
BLACKBOY454
  • MEMBER
  • 162 POSTS
to get at the back up switch you just pull up the shifter boot right?
Nov 21, 2011 at 9:48 PM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 30,869 POSTS
No its under the hood below the brake master cylinder screwed into the shifter tower cant miss it.
Nov 21, 2011 at 10:16 PM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle