Third brake light not working

2011 JEEP WRANGLER
93,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
MM95
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Third brake light not working, both left and right brake lights work fine. Replaced third brake light with a factory replacement and still does not work. Checked voltage at connector in tailgate and getting less than one volt.
May 1, 2022 at 5:57 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 110,190 POSTS
Hi,

If you are only getting that much power to the light, chances are there is an issue where the wires for the brake lights are spliced together.

On the passenger side under the dash, you will need to locate the instrument panel wiring harness. Inside the harness, you will find a group of white wires with a tan tracer. Follow the harness until you come to a splice where the wires connect together.

If you want to try, have someone wiggle the harness under the dash to see if there is a voltage change at the light socket. If there is, that is the problem.

I attached the wiring schematic below, so you have a reference. Note the schematic was only one page long. I had to cut it in two to make it readable for you. I did overlap then so you can follow from one to the next.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
May 1, 2022 at 8:04 PM
Advertisement