Both brake lights do not work

Tiny
G59R
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 FORD E-SERIES VAN
  • 5.4L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 50,000 MILES
Turn signals work, fuse is good, park lights work, 12 volt power at brake switch and it works when I check the power at the connection at the rear it test at 12 volts but the test light is very dim? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Tuesday, July 2nd, 2019 AT 8:56 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Welcome to 2CarPros.

Often times, you will see 12v with a multi-meter, but when any real load is placed on a circuit, it can fail. With that, I need you to go back to the switch. Put the brake light bulbs in. Test for 12v in to the switch light green/red wire and with the bulbs in, check for 12v out (light green wire) when you actuate the switch (see picture 1). If that fails or shows a drop in voltage, then we know the problem is either the switch, the relay, or the relay ground.

If it fails, check the brake light relay ground, See picture 2. Check it for corrosion, damage, and make sure it is tight and clean.

If the ground is good, then we need to check the brake light relay. (picture 2) Here is a link to help with checking a relay:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Here are a few links you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Tuesday, July 2nd, 2019 AT 9:50 PM

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