Taillights not working

[Plumber1]

Ok I know this is the TJ form but a lot of you guys know a lot about all jeeps so I was hoping someone may be able to help me out.

I have a 95 YJ that is having tail light issues. They light up when I put it in Reverse, they work when applying the brakes, the turn signals and emergency flashers work. Everything works expect when I turn on the headlights they don't come on. Any ideas where to start looking

 

[y3llowtj]

Trying tapping it.....had the same issue that you are explaining and started knocking on it like you would knock on a door and it seemed to fix it. May not work but worth a shot

If that doesn't fix it hopefully you figure out what it is!

 

[pagrey]

You've described that the high power filament lights but not the low power filament. I think headlights is the only time the low power filament works, be sure to check the bulbs. Beyond that I'd check the switch and if you have a voltmeter dive into that back at the socket.

 

[Plumber1]

Trying tapping it.....had the same issue that you are explaining and started knocking on it like you would knock on a door and it seemed to fix it. May not work but worth a shot

If that doesn't fix it hopefully you figure out what it is!

That might make sense but not when both rear lights are out

 

[pagrey]

The taillight issue is odd, it's not a Ford.

I know that's not too helpful, do the front marker lights work?

 

[Plumber1]

The taillight issue is odd, it's not a Ford.

I know that's not too helpful, do the front marker lights work?

Yes the fronts work

 

[pagrey]

Personally I'd guess the switch or the wires from the switch back to the light are corroded, pinched or damaged somehow. Wires especially because it's old and I know you use it hard.

 

[machoheadgames]

Disconnect the drivers plug, test the pin for power, if no power, trace back along the harness down the tub and find the issue in the wire. Could be anywhere between the left tail light and the switch.

 

[Plumber1]

Disconnect the drivers plug, test the pin for power, if no power, trace back along the harness down the tub and find the issue in the wire. Could be anywhere between the left tail light and the switch.

Does the driver side supply power the passenger side ?

 

[machoheadgames]

Does the driver side supply power the passenger side ?

Yes, there is a splice for it to go from one to the other. If both are out and you know it’s not the bulbs, then it’s got to be a break in the wire coming down the drivers side or under the dash.