95 Escort Brake Lights

[MonRiverRat]

Ok, got a problem with my moms 95 Ford Escort sedan with Hi-Stop third brake light. Problem is the two main brake lights don't work but the Hi-stop does. changed both bulbs in ones not lit even though the looked ok. The fuse is good and the switch is working or the one light wouldn't be on. Any takers?

[KimMG]

Have you checked the sockets for power? Do you have a wiring diagram for the car? Have you checked the ground connections for the lights? Check plugs between the brake light switch and the light sockets for corrosion, and power. Use a wiring diagram to help map out areas to test and to check off areas of the wiring harness you have checked.

[MonRiverRat]

Ok Thanks. Bought a test light tonight will check tomorrow. If all else fails I guess I can splice into the working Hi-stop brake that is working. Will post my findings...

[KimMG]

Better if you can find the break in the wiring so it doesn't create a short down the road. If you have power to the sockets and they are not corroded, check the ground connections.

[mightymoose_22]

It is most likely a ground problem. Follow the black wires from the bulbs and look for corrosion wherever they ground at.

The two bulbs that go in there look similar... bu sure you have the correct bulbs in the correct place.

If you turn on the headlights, to the tail lights also come on or are they out as well?

If the tail lights are also not coming on, then perhaps it is a power supply problem.

[dalegrubb]

this sounds familiar, i found "crud" in one of my lenses that made it into the socket. I also made it worse by puttong too heavy coat of di-electric grease on the bulb, it attracted more crud.
good luck