1998 CHEVROLET MALIBU - Malfuncting tail / stop / signal / backup lights (the bulbs)?

[ethos]

Right, rear tail light assembly:

Top row: white backup light, yellow right turn signal
Bottom row: tail light / brake x 2

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Q1) What would make tail light / brake light dim (not glow correctly)?

Right turn signal okay

Back up light not working.

I have replaced the bulbs and then the unit (when getting a price quote for the part, the dealership called it a 'circuit board') that you plug the four light bulbs in.

Q2) Could it be a bad fuse?

Q3) Could it be bad voltage? How to check voltage (with a voltmeter)?

Q4) What other troubleshooting can I try?

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Thanks for any input.

 

[Frankie]

The turn signal, flashers, tail lights and back-up lights all run on different circuits. The odds of them all burning out or blowing a fuse at the same time would be unheard of.

I'd suspect a bad ground. You have a ground that goes from the battery to the engine. Then there is a ground strap that goes from the engine to the body (usually around the firewall). Check these grounds for tightness and any corrosion. You may have to remove each end and clean it up.

Hope this helps.