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1983 - 2012 Ranger & B-Series All Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series models

Third Tail Light Issues

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Old Mar 11, 2023 | 09:29 AM
  #1  
Caleb H's Avatar
Caleb H
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Third Tail Light Issues

Hey everyone,

Here's the deal. I have a 2011 Ranger XLT Extended Cab. When I turn on the light switch, everything comes on normally EXCEPT the third tail light (center high mount). However, when I press the brakes, all three brake lights function properly. The assembly only has one single-filament bulb in it, and I verified the bulb is fine (and I swapped a brand new OEM one in anyway just in case). I disconnected the wiring connector and made sure it was free of corrosion or any other foreign material, and it was. I cleaned it up anyway. Still the same problem, and inspection is coming up this week. I own a multimeter but my electrical diagnosis skills are woefully limited. Does anyone else have this issue? Have I owned this truck for 12 years not knowing that is only a brake light and not a running light? What's going on?
 
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Old Mar 11, 2023 | 10:10 AM
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Your correct, sounds like the high mount brake-lamp is working normally, as it only lights up when we step on the brake pedal.
 
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Old Mar 11, 2023 | 02:07 PM
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Several years before the end of the Ranger run, the cargo lamps got dropped from the standard equipment.

You definitely only have a brake lamp up there.
 
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Old Mar 11, 2023 | 06:39 PM
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A friend coincidentally stopped by with his F150 today and I noticed that it was also only a brake light. Thank you both for the knowledge - I can't believe I never noticed before that it was a just a brake light. I guess as the driver, though, it's not something I'd really be aware of. Thanks again!
 
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