Ford Ranger Brake Lights Not Working: How To Troubleshoot?

Undoubtedly, you and your pricy Ford Ranger mid-size pickup trucks will be in danger if the brake lights not working. So in that case, there are no alternative ways to fix the problem immediately. But I know troubleshooting Ford Ranger brake lights issue isn’t a piece of cake. 

However, you need proper guidance to identify the causes and fix the brake lights. Let’s learn how I troubleshoot the ford ranger brake lights not working.

What Can Cause Your Brake Lights Not To Work?

There are several reasons for 2000, 2003, 2004 1994 and 1999 ford ranger brake lights not working. Here I have listed the few major causes that may make your ford ranger brake lights not work.

1. Burnt-out bulbs
2. Faulty brake light switch
3. Blown fuse
4. Bad relay 
5. Corroded bulb socket connectors

These are all the most common problems of different ford ranger models (1994, 2003, 2004). 

Did you know why roof marker lights not working? Well, to know the reasons and troubleshooting process, you can read this guide. 

2000, 2003, 2004 1994, and 1999 Ford Ranger Brake Lights Not Working: [ Problems & Solutions]

Problem 1: Burnt-Out Bulbs

Burnt-out bulbs are one of the most common causes of your faulty ford ranger brake lights. Due to wear and tear or other causes, it commonly happens that brake light bulbs burnt out. Once the bulb burns, you cannot light the brakes. You must replace the burnt-out bulbs to fix the problem.

Solution 1: 

1. Turn off the vehicle and open the tailgate to access the brake light assembly.
2. Then locate the brake light bulb that needs to be replaced. Check the bulbs to identify the burnt-out bulb. It is very easy; press the brake pedal and see which one is not illuminating.
3. Once identified, remove it. To remove the burnt-out bulb, twist the bulb socket counterclockwise to release it from the assembly. Then, gently pull the bulb straight out of the socket.
4. Take the new brake light bulb and insert it into the socket, and ensure it is mounted securely.
5. Then twist the socket clockwise back into the brake light assembly until it clicks into place.
6. Now test the new bulb by pressing the brake pedal to ensure it illuminates appropriately.
7. Once you have confirmed the new bulb is working correctly, close the tailgate.

Problem 2: Faulty Brake Light Switch

The brake light switch is responsible for supplying power to the lights. It can be the culprit for ford ranger brake lights not working. You must check for the brake switch when facing a problem in illuminating the ford ranger brake lights. If it is faulty, fix it and remove the issue.

Solution 2:

1. Locate the brake light switch. The Ford Ranger is usually located near the brake pedal under the dashboard.
2. Once accessed, inspect the brake light switch. Look for any damage, corrosion, or wear and tear.
3. Then check for the wiring harness that connects to the brake light switch. Ensure that there are no damaged wires or loose connections.
4. If no wires are damaged and the connection is secure, check for the switch’s continuity. Use a multimeter to check the switch’s continuity. If there is no continuity at the multimeter, your switch is faulty.
5. If the switch is faulty, remove it from the brake pedal assembly and replace it with a new one.
6. Reconnect the wiring harness to the new brake light switch.
7. Finally, test the new switch by pressing the brake pedal.

Problem 3: Blown Fuse

A blown fuse is another one of the most occurring causes that can damage the brake lights of your ford ranger models. If it is faulty it will stop the power supply to the brake lights. You must have to check for the fuse when troubleshooting the cause for the brake lights not working.

Did you know blown fuse is a common problem that can damage brake lights of any SUV? Yes, likewise Ford Ranger, it can damage the brake lights of gmc sierra SUV or chevy truck brake lights.

Solution 3:

1. First, turn off the ignition for safety.
2. Then locate the fuse box for brake lights. The Ford Ranger, it is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
3. Once found, identify the blown fuse. Look for the one with a broken filament or darkened glass.
4. Once you have found the faulty fuse. Remove the blown fuse with a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers.
5. Then install a new one with the same amperage rating.
6. Test the replaced fuse by turning on the ignition.

Problem 4: Bad Relay 

The proper working of relays is also a must to ensure a proper supply of power to the brake lights. If you have a bad relay, that can be the culprit for the ford ranger rear running lights not working. You should check for the relay; if it is faulty, replace it to fix the problem.

Solution 4:

1. Identify the location of the relay for the brake lights. The relay for the brake lights in Ford Ranger is usually located in the engine compartment fuse box.
2. Once located, check the relay for any signs of physical damage, such as cracks, burnt spots, or corrosion. If the relay appears damaged, it needs to be replaced.
3. Install the new relay and ensure it is properly mounted.
4. Use the multimeter to test the new relay and ensure it is functioning properly.

Problem 5: Corroded Bulb Socket Connectors

Bulb socket connectors can make your ford ranger brake lights faulty. Due to dirt, dust, or water, connectors can become corroded. A corroded connector becomes inefficient in supplying power to the bulbs. Check for the connectors; if corroded, clean them or replace the socket if needed.

Solution 5: 

1. First, turn the engine off and remove the key from the ignition.
2. Open the brake lights cover and then remove the bulbs from the socket. 
3. Check for the connectors; if there is corrosion, clean it with a wire brush.
4. If the connectors are too bad, replace the socket.
5. Unscrew the socket, and install the new socket. Make sure you have installed it correctly.
6. Install the bulb and test if it’s working; if it is fine, put back the brake lights cover.

Why Does The Ford Ranger Brake Light Stay On?

The brake light on a Ford Ranger may stay on due to a malfunctioning brake switch, a damaged or misadjusted brake pedal switch, or a problem with the brake fluid level or pressure. It could also be caused by a wiring issue or a faulty electronic control module.

How To Fix?

1. Locate the brake light switch. It is usually located near the brake pedal, above the brake pedal arm.
2. Inspect the switch and make sure it is not damaged. If it is damaged, replace it with a new one.
3. If the switch appears to be fine, check the adjustment. The switch may be misaligned, causing the brake lights to stay on. Adjust the switch until it is properly aligned with the brake pedal arm.
4. If the adjustment does not fix the issue, test the switch with a multimeter. Check for continuity when the brake pedal is depressed and no continuity when it is released. If the switch fails the test, replace it.
5. Once the switch is fixed or replaced, test the brake lights to make sure they are turning on and off as they should.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Conclusion:

Troubleshooting Ford Ranger brake light issues can be done through a series of steps, such as 

1. Checking the fuses
2. Brake light switch
3. Wiring
4. Bulbs. 

With proper inspection and testing, it is possible to identify the reason for the problem and fix it. It is important to prioritize brake light issues as they are crucial for safe driving.