No tail lights when in reverse

PerthX · Post by **PerthX** » 20 Nov 2010, 08:23

I have a '95 850t.

Noticed recently that the dashboard 'bulb' warning light goes on when I press the break. All light bulbs appear to be working, none burned out, even swapped them around to make sure. However in checking, we found that when put in reverse no back up lights illuminate [again bulbs are good]. What could be causing this?

I have had intermittent PNP problems recently and cleaning that is on the list. Could this be the cause or something else more problematic?

Post by **erikv11** » 20 Nov 2010, 13:17

The lack of backup lights is almost certainly a PNP issue.

Did you check the third brake light? Most likely the warning light on the dash is a separate issue from the reverse lights.

Post by **BEJinFbk** » 20 Nov 2010, 16:39

Corrosion or other crud in the lamp sockets will cause issues
with the Lamp Out system. Be sure that everything is clean.

PerthX · Post by **PerthX** » 24 Nov 2010, 09:53

Ok folks...did my PNP cleaning and all my tail lights [back up lights too] work fine again....still have that dashboard bulb warning light going on when I touch the breaks....go figure, all the proper lights are lighting. Even that special warning lamp on left side and yes I checked the sockets and even made sure they were clean and corrosion free.

Any other thoughts for that silly bulb warning light?

Post by **erikv11** » 24 Nov 2010, 11:12

Even the "third brake light" the one in the center of the rear window? Sorry to be redundant just making sure I wasn't very clear last time

PerthX · Post by **PerthX** » 15 Dec 2010, 09:43

Yes I checked ALL the rear lights including the "third" light works when they are supposed to work.
I am getting an A3 error code 142 "stop lamp switch faulty" and 141 "pedal signal faulty-shorted to ground"

Anyone have any ideas on this or am I just going to ignore it since everything works ok?