Brake lights not working

2013 KIA OPTIMA
125,678 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
JARCHULETA19
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
So I replace the brake light switch, both light bulbs in the back and the fuse are good.. once I take out both bulbs in the back the middle light works, but when I put the bulbs back in it stops working.
Oct 25, 2019 at 1:55 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Welcome to 2CarPros.

It sounds like the ground is bad. The grounds for all three lights is common. However, there are splices in them. What I suggest first it to inspect the ground specific to the rear brake lights. I attached a pic. The pic shows the ,main ground for them.

Check that for continuity, make sure it isn't loose or damaged, and check for corrosion.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Let me know what you find. I suspect, the added load of the two additional bulbs is causing the ground to fail. They all get power from the same source, so this is my first suspect.

Take care,
Joe
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Oct 25, 2019 at 6:31 PM
Avatar
JARCHULETA19
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Okay sir, I check them and they are all good. still not working.
Oct 27, 2019 at 2:00 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Welcome back:

Can you upload a pic of the back of the light assembly so I can see what you are dealing with.

Thanks,
Joe
Oct 27, 2019 at 9:00 PM