Reverse Lights Not Working:
Reverse Lights Not Working:
Author
Discussion

RT/10Dave

Original Poster:

6,364 posts

230 months

Thursday 16th October 2008
quotequote all
From another thread:

Ginja said:
It seems my reversing lights aren't working either, must check that before the MOT!! As both don't come on I suspect it will be the switch, any hints welcome!!
I have recently noticed that mine aren't working either, though this was not picked up when it went through the MOT recently. I am yet to start looking to work out what is causing the problem, but would also be interested to see what the potential issue could be.

I know there is a switch somewhere on the gearbox, it was suggested that I may have knocked this when fitting my Hurst Shifter, but I'm pretty sure they have been working since that was fitted, it's been quite a while since I did it.

Again, any ideas would be appreciated so that I can check all posibilities...

1. Switch
2. Bulbs

Edited by RT/10Dave on Thursday 16th October 11:30

Ginja

1,018 posts

223 months

Thursday 16th October 2008
quotequote all
From the VCA Site:

'The reverse switch on the transmission is known to go out from time to time. My old GTS had this problem. As I recall the switch was 18 dollars and took me about 2 seconds to change once I had the car jacked up'

And:

'Per the Wizard:

Switch #4626593 MSRP $28.75 [less 20% VCA]'

And from another topic:

'Common problem on Gen II's - mine went out a year ago. Replacement switch is something like $22, and is replaced simply by unscrewing the old switch and screwing the new switch into the tranny.

Now, some people say you can get to the switch without removing the plate under the transmission (something like 20 not-small bolts), but I found it easier to remove the plate, despite the fact some of the bolts are almost rusted on, etc. Thats the only part that adds any time to the job - an air ratchet helps, if you have air tools.'

Apparently there is a fuse which may be at fault as well, but can't see which one. It seems the switch is the most likely candidate.

Mark

P.S. For searches it seems the Americans choose to use the term 'Back up Lights' for reverse lights. Why they can't just use the Queens English is beyond me.... smile

Edited by Ginja on Thursday 16th October 12:25

MADMAX-UK

1,261 posts

221 months

Thursday 16th October 2008
quotequote all
I replaced my 'backup switch' just before we did the mini VOI.

After spending ages poncing around with lamps, I narrowed it down to the switch - I then spent 'more ages' cleaning the old switch to try and get a few more miles out of it!!! Don't bother, it's not worth it - I could get it working fine on the bench, but still no good when re-fitted. And for what it cost to replace - Chuck sorted me out with a new one, super slick and efficient. thumbup

If it happens to me again, I'll first check the fuses (cos it's easy) then if BOTH backup lamps are not working I'll go straight for the switch.

You'll find this switch amazingly fitted to the gearbox smash ..... Accessed from under the car, passenger side, at about 9'o'Clock - it's the only one on that side BUT you'll need to remove the stone shield.

A quick check I did to confirm the switch was definitely the problem:
Disconnect the switch and put a short wire link across the cable end terminals (insulate this link so it can't touch the vehicle ground or you WILL have a fuse problem) - then flick your ignition ON and if your backup lights work, your switch is u/s.

Good luck. driving

Edited by MADMAX-UK on Thursday 16th October 13:15

Ginja

1,018 posts

223 months

Thursday 16th October 2008
quotequote all
Thanks Ade, pretty sure thats what it will be tbh.

Mark

AndyBe

6,836 posts

229 months

Thursday 16th October 2008
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Of course it's almost a 'must' to have, but I'm pretty sure it's not a part of the MOT. I've certainly never had an MOT tester check the reverse lights on any car I've owned - in over 23 years of driving.

fatboy18

19,475 posts

233 months

Thursday 16th October 2008
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Ginja, If you need to get under your car you could always bring it round to me, Ive got a pit in the garage, we should be able to change that part quite easley thumbup

Edited by fatboy18 on Thursday 16th October 20:17

Ginja

1,018 posts

223 months

Friday 17th October 2008
quotequote all
Hey Mark, Really appreciate that thanks and may take you up on your offer when I actually get round to looking at it!

Mark

fatboy18

19,475 posts

233 months

Friday 17th October 2008
quotequote all
thumbup Pit normally comes with free mugs of Tea too biggrin

Edited by fatboy18 on Friday 17th October 22:40