Your car’s tail lights guarantee a secure reverse or parking. But over time, they may stop working for various reasons, increasing safety risks. How do you troubleshoot no tail lights when headlights are on?
Bad light bulbs and fuses are the most common reasons for tail light problems. To fix the problems, you will need to replace them. A malfunctioning control switch or a corroded light socket are two more potential causes. You should check for them and fix them if responsible.
To address common problems quickly, it is beneficial to have a thorough understanding of them. I will teach you everything in the guide below.
Symptoms of Tail Lights Not Working When Headlights Are On
The following symptoms could appear when you see that the headlights are on but the taillights are off.
- Your tail light may fail to emit the light or appear very dim when headlights are on.
- When you apply brakes, your tail lights may not illuminate.
- Turning signals may stop working properly
- Tail lights may fail to engage when you shift into reverse
- The vehicle’s dashboard may display the warning light
It may help you fix tail light and dash light problems: tail lights and dash lights not working
Causes of Tail Lights Not Working When Headlights Are On
Your vehicle’s tail light may be faulty due to several issues, but here is a list of the most common problems that you should look for.
- Bad light bulb
- Damaged fuse
- Corroded light socket
- Faulty control switch
Do you have concerns about headlight problems while using the brake lights? Read this blog it may help you: brake light doesnt work when headlights are on
No Tail Lights When Headlights Are On [ Problems & Solutions]
Problem 1: Bad Light Bulb
If you have a bad light bulb in your vehicle’s tail light, it will fail to illuminate even if the headlights are working. Due to fault, the bulb cannot emit light or illuminate very dimly. It needs replacement to ensure safety.
Solution:
- Turn your vehicle “OFF.”
- Then access to the rear of your vehicle
- Using a screwdriver, remove the bolts holding the tail light cover off.
- Check for the bulb, its filament or physical damage
- If the bulb is faulty, replace it with a new one. I recommend Torchbeam 3157 Red LED Tail Lights for consistent performance.
- Once the bulb is replaced, reassemble the tail light cover and turn the headlight on to confirm the fix.
Problem 2: Damaged Fuse
The fuse ensures a consistent power supply to the electrical components. If the tail light fuse is damaged, it can disrupt the power supply to the tail lights. So, check for the damaged fuse and replace it if needed.
Solution:
- Turn off your vehicle and open its hood
- Locate the fuse box near the engine compartment. Read the instructions on the fuse box or user manual to find the tail light fuse
- Once you understand, open the fuse box, locate your fuse, and check it for damage
- If the fuse is broken or blown, replace it with a new one
- After replacement, close the fuse box and hood and start your vehicle
- Turn the tail lights on to ensure the problem is fixed
Fix honda civin brake lights problems after reading this blog: Honda Civic brake lights wont turn off
Problem 3: Corroded Light Socket
Corroded tail light sockets can disrupt the electrical connections. If there is too much corrosion, it will prevent the tail light from illuminating when your headlights are on. Corrosion will hinder the proper current flow and may cause a failure of the lighting system.
Solution:
- Turn the ignition switch “OFF.”
- Access to the tail light cover and remove it by removing its bolts using a screwdriver
- After that, check for corrosion on the socket
- If you see the corrosion, take a brush and clean it. Make sure all the corrosion is removed
- After the removal of corrosion, apply the anti-corrosion material to prevent future issues. I recommend Krytox D12429281 Anti-Corrosion Grease for the tail light socket
- Reassemble the tail light assembly and turn the ignition switch “on.
- Test and ensure the tail lights are okay.
Problem 4: Faulty Control Switch
The control switch is responsible for a consistent power supply to the tail light electric circuit. If the switch becomes faulty, it can disrupt the supply, and you may experience no illumination of the tail light when your headlights are on.
Solution:
- Park your vehicle and Turn it “OFF.”
- Locate the control switch; it is usually located on the dashboard near the steering column or integrated into the light assembly
- Once you have located the switch, check it for damage
- If it is broken, replace it with a compatible control switch, according to your vehicle
- While replacing, also check for connections and wires and ensure no wire issues or loose connections exist.
- Reassemble the switch assembly and turn your vehicle “on.”
- Test the tail light bulbs for functionality
If you have time, you must read this link to fix brake light problems: GMC Sierra brake lights not working
Tail Light Not Working On One Side
If your tail light on one side is not working, you may have an issue with the bulb or light socket. Another possible reason is the loose connection.
Solution:
- First, check for the bad tail light side bulb and ensure the bulb is fine. If the bulb is broken or blown, replace it with a new one.
- Also, check the tail light socket and ensure there is no corrosion. If corrosion exists, remove it and apply the anti-corrosion grease.
- Finally, check for connections and ensure no loose connections exist. Tighten the connection if it is loose. Additionally, make sure there are no cuts or other damage to the wires coming from that light by checking them.
If you are facing Jeep Cherokee brake light issues, read this blog: 2004 jeep grand cherokee brake lights not working
LED Tail Lights Not Working But Brake Lights Are
The problem may occur due to a fault in the bulb filament. The tail light and brake light use the same dual filament bulb. If one of the filaments breaks, the tail light may stop working while your brake lights are okay.
Solution:
- Locate the tail light assembly and remove the cover by removing its screws
- Check for the bulbs and identify the broken filament
- If you see the tail light bulb filament broken, replace it with a new bulb
- Reassemble the tail light assembly and test the tail light to confirm the issue fix
Are Tail Lights and Headlights the Same Bulb?
No, they are different. The tail light and headlights are not only different in their functions, but they are also different in shape and size. So, you also need different types, shapes, and sizes of bulbs for each one. Never try to alternate them; otherwise, you may experience frustration.
Brake light issues can be dangerous, Fix them after reading this blog: Honda accord brake lights not working
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What does it mean when your headlights and tail lights go out?
If both the headlights and tail lights go out, you may have issues with the electrical system. If an electrical system suddenly fails, it will stop supplying power to the lights to illuminate.
Why are tail lights always on?
If your tail lights always stay on, you may have an issue with the switch or the sensor. It may also happen due to a faulty in the electrical system. But if you have recently replaced the tail light bulb, you may have wired it wrong.
How long do tail lights last?
It depends on the tail light quality and use. But on average, a tail light can last about 40,000 miles. Its bulb may become faulty too frequently, but assembly can last for 2 to 3 years easily.
Is it bad to drive when the tail lights aren’t working?
Yes, it is hazardous to drive with bad tail lights. Tail lights prevent you from colliding on the roads, especially when driving on rushy roads. If you drive with bad tail lights, you may experience severe damage to your vehicle. So, it is better to avoid driving with bad tail lights.
Conclusion
Fixing the tail light issue is essential to ensuring your and your vehicle’s safety. It prevents you from having severe accidents. It is an easy task that may not take more than a few minutes if you follow the correct instructions. If you have this issue, first diagnose the causes, and once the cause is identified, fix it accordingly.