Reverse Lights not working...

[Sparkz0629]

For some reaosn my reverse lights just stopped working, both of them at the same time. I've checked all the fuses, checked both globes, and still can't find anything wrong.... someone help....

 

[wikk3d88]

For some reaosn my reverse lights just stopped working, both of them at the same time. I've checked all the fuses, checked both globes, and still can't find anything wrong.... someone help....

there is usually a switch, located on the gearbox, that is responsible for the reverse lights coming on when you put the car into reverse. chances are you need to replace that switch
what car is it btw

 

[APoc184]

Did you put the car in reverse before checking?

Just kidding.
Did you test the fuses and globes with a multimeter or just by eye?

 

[Sparkz0629]

there is usually a switch, located on the gearbox, that is responsible for the reverse lights coming on when you put the car into reverse. chances are you need to replace that switch
what car is it btw

I heard bout that, but was hoping it wasn't that. Its a 2001 Ford Ranger. Do you by any chance know that the cost could be? + or -...

Did you test the fuses and globes with a multimeter or just by eye?

Just checked by eye, but surely you would see if it was blown...

 

[Sackboy]

Check the contacts on the bulb holder connector cable.

 

[Sparkz0629]

but surely it wouldn't have affected both bulbs.....at the same time?

 

[bullfrog]

but surely it wouldn't have affected both bulbs.....at the same time?

Different cars are wired up differently, so if they're in series, it could affect both bulbs.

 

[Archi3]

I'd check the reverse switch as said earlier...If it is the switch, take a pic and send it to me, i might be able to get you one!

 

[Sparkz0629]

I'll check them when i get home, and hpefully it'll sort it out.... its kinda dodgy not having reverse lights.........

 

[wikk3d88]

I'll check them when i get home, and hpefully it'll sort it out.... its kinda dodgy not having reverse lights.........

i went six months before noticing mine werent working... :wtf:

 

[Voicy]

there is usually a switch, located on the gearbox, that is responsible for the reverse lights coming on when you put the car into reverse. chances are you need to replace that switch
what car is it btw

This.

Easiest way to check it...

Step 1:

Take a multimeter and put it on continuity-test (the thingy that makes the *BEEP* noise if you touch the two prongs together)

Step 2:

Now remove the cable that clips into the switch on your gearbox (very easy, it just clips out).

Step 3:

Put the car out of gear

Step 4:

Place the tongs on the 2 pins that stick out. It won't make a noise.

Step 5:

Put the car in reverse

Step 6:

Place the tongs on the 2 pins again. It should make a noise this time, if not, you know the switch is faulty...if it does make a noise, you can safely assume the fault lies elsewhere.

90% of the time you can be sure the fault lies with that little switch. I've had the same problem on my car as well. Fortunately it's inexpensive and easy to replace.

EDIT:

Oh and Step 7:

Reconnect the cable clip to the switch. You don't want dangly bits near your radiator fan etc.

 

[Sparkz0629]

i went six months before noticing mine werent working... :wtf:

I probablt still wouldn't have noticed if it wwasn't for my bro locking the gate..... .... maybe all those checks they make you do for your licence asn't all bad.... nnnnaaaaaaahhhhhhttttt..... lol

This.

Easiest way to check it...

Step 1:

Take a multimeter and put it on continuity-test (the thingy that makes the *BEEP* noise if you touch the two prongs together)

Step 2:

Now remove the cable that clips into the switch on your gearbox (very easy, it just clips out).

Step 3:

Put the car out of gear

Step 4:

Place the tongs on the 2 pins that stick out. It won't make a noise.

Step 5:

Put the car in reverse

Step 6:

Place the tongs on the 2 pins again. It should make a noise this time, if not, you know the switch is faulty...if it does make a noise, you can safely assume the fault lies elsewhere.

90% of the time you can be sure the fault lies with that little switch. I've had the same problem on my car as well. Fortunately it's inexpensive and easy to replace.

EDIT:

Oh and Step 7:

Reconnect the cable clip to the switch. You don't want dangly bits near your radiator fan etc.

That makes my life a little easier, i thought it was gonna be a huge mission to fix it.... So it can be done at home?

 

[wikk3d88]

I probablt still wouldn't have noticed if it wwasn't for my bro locking the gate..... .... maybe all those checks they make you do for your licence asn't all bad.... nnnnaaaaaaahhhhhhttttt..... lol



That makes my life a little easier, i thought it was gonna be a huge mission to fix it.... So it can be done at home?

easier way : unplug the wires and bridge the connection (paperclip/staple worked for me) and see if your reverse lights do come on

 

[Voicy]

easier way : unplug the wires and bridge the connection (paperclip/staple worked for me) and see if your reverse lights do come on

That would be the easier way.

 

[Sparkz0629]

Im probably gonna sound like a real idiot now, but where can i find this switch? like specifically. and is it easy to get to? and if need be, where can i get a new one?

 

[wikk3d88]

Im probably gonna sound like a real idiot now, but where can i find this switch? like specifically. and is it easy to get to? and if need be, where can i get a new one?

try calling your local ford dealership and ask their service department.

i have a a haynes manual for my car, details where i can find all the little bits and bobs

can google help?

 

[ALFAHOLIC]

Ford - that's why its not working

 

[Stokstert]

Different cars are wired up differently, so if they're in series, it could affect both bulbs.

I have never seen a series set-up of reverse light globes in my life (61 years) before. That means you need 2 x 6V globes in an otherwise 12V electrical system.

 

[Kloofvreter]

try calling your local ford dealership and ask their service department.

i have a a haynes manual for my car, details where i can find all the little bits and bobs

can google help?

**** the dealerships. Only thing they are good for is getting a part number. Don't pay the ridiculous prices they ask for parts.

Ford - that's why its not working

 

[Pixual]

Both of my wife's brake lights on her 2004 Polo hatch stopped working the other day. At the same time too. Imagine my surprise to learn that it wasn't the fuse and that I couldn't replace the bulbs myself. It has to be done at a VW workshop.

We were all ready for a big fight but the total cost to replace both of them was only R17.65 including labour.