Q: Rear lights not working.

asked by on January 14, 2016

The taillights and brake lights of my car do not work. I tried changing the bulbs, but they still do not work. In addition, when I put my key in the ignition, the left headlight and right hazard light automatically come on and stay on.

Lights (Headlamps/beams/brakes) Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Looking at the wiring diagram for your vehicle, I see that none of these circuits share a common ground. They do however, all receive power from the totally integrated control module (TIPM). This module is basically a smart fuse box. It has been known to cause all kind of unusually problems and has even been the subject of a class action lawsuit against Chrysler. I would first call you local dealer with the VIN of your vehicle and see if it qualifies for any of the TIPM recalls. I don’t think your model year applies though, unfortunately, but it wouldn’t hurt to double check. If your car is not covered under the recall, give YourMechanic a call. We would be happy to diagnose and repair your PT Cruiser.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car rattling.
This engine rattling on acceleration may be a computer reprogram that would fix if the noise is what is called pinging or pre-ignition. The problem of the noise at idle and on acceleration may be another problem and I would...
Head gaskets leaking
These engines, if turbocharged, can have various problems; the system over-boosted and blew the head gaskets, or the engine overheated and warped the heads, causing the gaskets to leak. Either way, this may have damaged the heads, so the repair...
Car overheating with no steam
Hello, it sounds possible that the water pump is not working properly. The water pump spins and pushes coolant through the engine and radiator, allowing circulation through these components to prevent the car from overheating. If the water pump is...
Need to reattach the rear muffler
You can visit a local mechanic or take it to a local exhaust shop - whatever is best for you. If a bolt broke then it may be as simple as putting in another bolt, but I do not think...
Sudden starting problem that happens sporadically
Hi there, thanks for writing in about your 1992 Oldsmobile 98. It is possible that the starter relay is failing (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/starter-relay-replacement). This relay is different than the starter solenoid that was likely replaced with the starter. The starter relay has...
Timing belt failure - 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
Hi there - no, it would have been impossible for a mechanic to know a timing belt failure was imminent. Given your mileage, the timing belt has been changed at least once already. When that was done, the service center...
Toyota Camry is Leaking Motor Oil
Some of the common causes of oil leaks would include the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, oil filter, and oil drain plug. I would recommend having all of these parts checked by a qualified professional to determine the source...
I recently ran my truck hot.
Was a compression test done on the engine before it was started for the first time? Depending on where the knocking is coming from, there may be a deeper internal engine failure either from the overheating or it was not...
Hi, I have a 1995 Suzuki Sidekick 2WD 1.6L 8V TBI SOHC 4cy It is completely out of time. I would appreciate information on: 1. Ho
Hi Leo. Thanks for the question tonight. The only way for us to help you with this would be to attach the instructions noted in the service and repair manual for the 1995 Suzuki Sidekick. Unfortunately, since we're unable to...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country
While While the Chrysler Town & Country has been in production for over half a century, the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country is anything but old-fashioned. The model got a huge overhaul in 2011 and saw a few new upgrades...
How to Replace a Tail Light on SUVs, Vans, and Hatchbacks
Tail lights are vital for safety on the road. Over time, a tail light may burn out and require you to replace a bulb or the whole assembly.
Understanding the Chrysler Oil Change Indicator and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Chrysler Oil Change Indicator lets you know when and what service your car needs.