Left brake light out on a '97 Explorer. It is not the bulb. Any suggestions as to what else it may be?

Question

The right brake light is functioning, as are the turn signals and backup lamps on both sides. Thank you.

Answer 1

Have you checked the wiring harness that goes into the light bulb receptacle? It is a little plug in, that could be loose.

Also you may want to try spraying a little WD 40 into the socket and the replace the bulb again. A 97 could very well have just enough rust and condensation to keep the bulb from getting a good connection to it.

If that doesn't work I would check the fuses and breakers really good. I do not think that they are on a different circuit, but it wold not hurt to check it out.

Chances are it is in that plug in give it a good once over.

Answer 2

I don't want to insult your intelligence, but you are aware that rear tailight bulbs have two filaments, right? One is for the turn signal, and the other is for the brake light. So it's possible for the bulb to flash for the signal and the other filament to be broken. I don't think it would be the fuse, because there is only one fuse for both sides, the right side works, so therefore the fuse must be good.

Try swapping the right side bulb for the left..and see if that works.
You may have thought of that already but maybe it'll help someone else here. good luck, you'll find it

Answer 3

did you do a continuity test on the bulb or try one that is known to be good? I've seeen perfectly clear bulbs that you couldn't even find the break in the filiment but they were bad. other than that, start by tracing the wiring harness to see if there is any obvious damage. You'll find it running down the left side frame rail, feeding the left light and jumping to the right light. if you don't see any chafing or cuts, test for voltage at the socket contacts. if no voltage, check again just before the socket by piercing the wiring insulation with your test lead. if voltage here, replace socket. if not, keep checking until you do find voltage and determine what's stopping it from getting to the socket.
OR just replace the socket using crimp type butt connectors. the sockets are only a few bucks at parts stores

Answer 4

Almost always the bulb socket is melted where the bulb contact is. pull the reflector lens assembly take out the affected bulb holder pull the bulb. Buy brake parts cleaner auto parts store use an old towel to contain the splash spray with the nozzle into the socket and examine the contacts. There is bulb grease to keep moisture out in the bulb holder. It tends to splash where you don't want it.

Answer 5

Obviously double check the bulb... maybe even try switching bulb just to be sure... Otherwise check the fuse. usually there's a little guide that shows you what fuse is for what... find the one for brake lights, and pull it out to see if its blown. If its blown the little squiggly filament, will be busted. Just replace it.

Answer 6

You have a bad connection someplace. Get yourself a testlight and follow your line back until you find a place where it works. It is not a relay or both brake lights would be out. Good Luck

: )

Answer 7

Well, since you say it's not the bulb and it's only one light, that most likely rules out an issue with a blown fuse. The most likely problem is faulty wiring.

Answer 8

Just because the bulb LOOKS good, doesn't mean that it IS good. I would try replacing it, or at least I would switch it with the one on the other side.

Answer 9

i imagine you need to have the motorized vehicle's lights and signal lamps checked correct for defective bulbs. replace them right now to dodge any nasty coincidence on the line once you're using. satisfied motoring!

Answer 10

check: bulbs, fuses, and "WIRES". it should not be a relay....b/c if it was none of your brake lights would work, possable the holder could be burned out