Hello,

Having an issue with my reverse lights not coming on and can't seem to figure it out.

The facts:

• 1999 4x4 XLT 5spd.
• Had new headlights installed last summer (I think this is when the issue started).
• Front Driver's Side blinker blinks at fast rate (indicative of electrical issue).
• Reverse lights (not originals, I wired up a new set several years ago and they have always worked fine) do not come on when vehicle is put in reverse.
• All other lights work.

What I've tried so far from reading and experimenting:

• Checked all fuses, replaced #26 and #27. No change.
• 0v getting to wires at reverse lights (obviously).
• Checked switch connector on transmission. Plug is getting 12.5v.
• Ran jumper wire from transmission connector to reverse lights. They lit up (so the issue is not the lights themselves).
• Replaced switch on transmission, no change.
• Removed headlights, checked all bulbs/plugs, replaced. No change.

At this point I'm not sure what else to check. The fact that the driver's side blinker is indicating an issue seems to point out that there's a short somewhere--but would this be related to reverse lights?

Any ideas?

 

The fast blinker usually means that a bulb is disconnected or a wire is loose somewhere. That's why I have found to be the problems. Try and trace the wire from the tranny if you can. If its 12.5v @ the tranny and 0v @ the lights then it's somewhere along the line.

 

Do you think the issues are related?

 

Almost positive. When I had a tail light out, the blinker was really fast. Do your brake lights work? Double check all your fuses again.