Brake lights are not working

D PAYNE

MEMBER
1997 PONTIAC FIREBIRD
5.7L
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
116,000 MILES

The brake lights do not work, the tail lights work fine and the third brake light in the center of the truck lid works. I change the brake light switch and checked the bulbs and the bulb sockets. Any help would be appreciated.

Tuesday, December 20th, 2016 AT 8:32 AM

7 Replies

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

That is most likely a bad turn signal switch. The two lower lights pass through that first so the turn signals can cancel out the brake lights when necessary.

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Tuesday, December 20th, 2016 AT 10:55 AM

D PAYNE

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Okay thanks, I will change that out.

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Tuesday, December 20th, 2016 AT 10:58 AM

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

You really should test things before replacing them. You would need a wiring diagram and someone that knows how to read and follow it along with know how to test.

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Tuesday, December 20th, 2016 AT 11:02 AM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,465 POSTS

Okay, if the CHMSL works you can eliminate the primary fuse and the brake light switch. Next item. Do the rear turn signals work? How about the hazard lights?

The brake switch feeds them.

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Tuesday, December 20th, 2016 AT 11:02 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
47,643 POSTS

Hey D PAYNE,

Yep a simple test light and this wiring diagram I got for you. Trace the power and see where you loose it then replace or repair as needed.

Here is a guide that will help you as well.

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

Please let me know how it goes.

Best, Ken

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