Hello, all.

Ever since I've acquired my used year 2000 GS 300 a few days ago, I've noticed that the "Rear Light Failure Warning Light" has been on in my dashboard. I initially thought that it signified that the daytime running lights were on, but after looking into page 72 of the owner's manual, I've decided to check on the rear lights and brake lights.

All of my lights seem to work, including the brake lights. My indicator lights are also functional. I can't seem to find out why the warning light is on. Does anyone have an idea why?

 

Have you checked your third brake light ?

 

Yes, the third brake light also works.

 

sometimes if one of your brake bulb is ABOUT to go out. the warning light will also come on. best way is to test it at night time see which side is dimmer, have someone stepping on the brake for you.

 

is every bulb on the 3rd brake light is working? 1 of them out turns the warning light on

 

check all tail light bulbs at night.
the 3rd brake light has 5 bulbs in there

 

Thanks for all the input, everyone. I think swat1727 might be on it. Upon closer inspection, one of the left lights is dimmer than the right. As far as I know, all of the lights in the third brake are working fine. I'll check again tomorrow...

 

How does it know that a bulb is about to go out??

 

^^^ good question... when a bulb goes it does just that? The only difference I guess is the power out-put might be dimmer IMO... But I really doubt is that.

Try checking your brake fluid... If that is low, that could possibly trigger the warning light.

 

2000 Lexus ES 300: In my case the "Rear Light Failure Warning" illuminated on the instrument console along with the Revere (R) light illuminated. The entire bank of lights on my trunk lid were out, including running lights, backup lights and both license plate illumination lights. Problem was found to be 5 broken wires in the wiring harness running along side the LEFT trunk lid hinge. I have read other forums describing this as a common problem due to poor design. There may even be a Lexus / Toyota recall addressing this issue. I fixed the problem myself using a soldering tool to reconnect ALL wires. Before soldering I cut strips of 'heat shrink tubing' and slid them on below the soldering point. After soldering I slid the tubing into position over the soldered joint and used heat to shrink them to fit. Hope this helps...