Rear Light Problems, Last Gasp.

[combwork]

HELP, or rather help please?????

On a V6 Exclusive Estate, could there be any common problem that would cause the number plate lights, the rear fog lights and the reversing lights all to fail? I've tested the bulbs and they are all ok. I've tested the connections in the bulb sockets for number plate and reversing lights; no voltage. All the lights are on the tailgate. The normal rear lights and indicator lights (also on the tailgate) all work. The dashboard warning light for the rear fogs comes on ok. The front spot lights work and I can hear a relay click when I turn them on. Operating the switch for the rear fogs; no click.

For the reversing lights, I was advised earlier to check the wiring below the battery box. I've not had time to do this yet but it's on my list. One thought; I could fix the number plate lights by wiring them direct from the rear lights, but is it possible that all three failed light units share a common earth point?

It's getting dark; time to leave the above until daylight.

Car failed it's MOT today, primarily for the light faults. Back end is very reluctant to go up and down, but it did before it was laid up on blocks for 8 weeks, so I'm hoping it's nothing that a squirt of penetrating oil won't cure at least in the short term.

I'll try to get at it tomorrow; any advice about dubious electrics would be most welcome.

Best Regards,

Jim.

[noz]

Hi Jim,

Your problems are all related I'm pleased to tell you. All the circuits you listed share a common earth. It is the M8 earth. I've attached a picture of the location of all the earth points. For some reason points 1-7 are on one drawing and point 8 on another. I've cut and pasted the drawings so that all 8 are shown on the same drawing. Point 8 is the very small one in the middle of the rear tailgate.

I've attached the drawing to this post and I'll attach the photos of the location to the next.

Hope this helps.

cheers

noz

[noz]

Hi Jim,

Here's a photo of the location of the M8 earthing point. All the cables earth to the tailgate via a connector block. The connector block is bolted through to the bodywork. I'd remove it and check underneath for rust etc. If its OK it might be the earth from the tailgate to the main body of the car. I can't see if there's a cable or whether there's enough continuity through the two hinges.

Best of luck.

cheers

noz