License plate and side marker lamps DEAD

[azp8n]

Please help. I have a 98 Taurus and the license plate lights are dead...as the side rearmarkers are also. I have used a multimeter on the sockets and they have NO continuity to ground and they have no 12 volts at the sockets...and yes the light switch is on....the fronts work fine.

[KimMG]

Using a wiring diagram, see if you can find a common point of failure. Sounds like you are going to have to physically trace the wiring harness until you find the fault.

[azp8n]

Thanks for the quick reply Kim...and AAAARRRRRGGGGGG....I thought that was going to be the case....That was my next step...I think that the packrats go it to be honest...again thanks
JAmes Peyton

[KimMG]

Making an enlarged copy of the wiring diagram will make easier to read and to make notes on. Using colored pens helps to highlight the circuit you are working on.

[azp8n]

Good idea Kim. I think that the hard pard it pulling off the rear bumper to get to the wiring...any suggestions?

[KimMG]

Start with switches, fuses, and areas that can be accessed easily. Example: Dash switch fairly easy to get to and has many wires. Pull the affected light assemblies and see wich one is providing the common feed (wiring diagram may designate which light assembly). Wires are damaged when rubbed, frayed, pinched, or cut. Look for areas that have been taken apart that may affect the questionable circuit. Harness plugs are a source of corrosion. Start with the areas that are easily accessible, and use a process of elimination.