Explorer reverse lights not working

[timfost85]

I know this is a Ranger forum, but I know that Explores and Rangers have a number of similarities.

Vehicle is 2002 4l 4x4, automatic tranny.

My reverse lights won't work. When I pull the gear shifter into D, sometimes the reverse lights flicker, so they seem to get a little juice. However, they won't turn on when the truck is in reverse. I already replaced the neutral safety switch.

Ideas?

 

[PhillipAshfordJr]

Is that all you've done? Replaced anything else? Tested to make sure they're getting enough power?

 

[Mark_88]

Howdy and welcome to TRS~!

Sounds like the connector on the transmission may be loose...if both bulbs are doing the same thing...or a loose connection somewhere down the line. They pretty much run right from the connector under the seat to the rear tail light housing so not much else in there to come loose.

Not sure where it is on the eXplorer but you can find that information either in a haynes manual or the on-line manual diagrams...

Could be the connector is simply dirty or maybe a mouse chewed partially through the wire...or chaffing...in which case you need to inspect the entire wire harness all the way back...but hopefully it is just a loose connector...