Headlights and taillights not working after accident

JOAB1

MEMBER
2004 FORD F-150
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
123,000 MILES

So, I hit an Elk and he hit the passenger side front/side bumper and fender. Walk away with hardly a scratch. Ford tough baby. The only issue (and I’m only guessing it’s related) is now weeks like Tim without headlights and running taillights. I’ve run my novice diagnosis and checked all the fuses, swapped relays, tested all visible grounds. Where I stop on the wiring is at the fuse box. Fuses 23, 25, and at the top row between the relays all are getting zero power. Not blown just no power. Also, now the ignition is getting no power. And when I have the battery plugged in to my Jump box, I can hear this weird clicking behind the back sheet almost think there’s a short in the wiring back there but no sure how to access it. Anyone have any idea where to turn next? I’ve cleaned the battery terminals as well and the headlight switch seems to be working fine. But only half the prongs are getting power.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Hi,

I need a little more information. First, please confirm if this has a 5.4L or 4.6L engine, if any of the rear lights are working, if the headlamps work at all (high or low beam), if you pull the multi-function switch (flash to pass) do the lights turn on, and if the vehicle has daytime running lights or fog lights.

Also, I attached a pic below showing the central fuse box. I highlighted the two fuses you mentioned (23 and 25). Please copy my pic and circle or highlight which fuses/relays are not getting power.

I'm sorry for so many questions. There are variations in many of the schematics making it impossible for me to determine a possible cause. Also, where do you hear the clicking coming from? Is this a crew cab?

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)