Tail Lights drained battery

[mikgor]

The tail lights on my 02 Ford Explorer come on at random and have drained the battery while my wife was at work. Happened twice at home, lights came on and then turned with no one in the vehicle. Any thoughts or ideas on where to start. ie main light switch, light relay etc..

Thanks for any input


Mike

 

[RangerSVT]

Which light circuit is coming on, running lights, brake lights or reverse lights? If its brake lights, I'd check your brake switch mounted near the top of your brake pedal...

SVT

 

[2TimingTom]

I'd bet the brake light switch isn't opening after the pedal is released. Seen it happen on my '98 Mountaineer.

The switch in my '98 was contained a small black box. You can open it up (don't remember if there were screws or just pried it open). Once open, you'll be able to see the switch contacts. Mine had actually "welded" themselves together. Which is a little disconcerting....... I broke them apart and cleaned up the interface between them, closed up the switch box and reinstalled it.

 

[mikgor]

Found out that it is my brake lights staying on. Pulled on the brake pedal and lights went out. Ordered a new switch today from Ford dealer. Thanks for the help guys!!!

 

[BigRondo]

Welcome aboard!!

Before ordering the switch, you should check out these threads. I used them to fix my switch!!

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=263098

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=351168

Hope this helps out!!