Puzzling Tail Lamp Problem

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Jul 13, 2004 | 08:34 PM

squarehat

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Lexus Test Driver

Joined: May 2002

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From: Ohio, USA

Puzzling Tail Lamp Problem

I have a '96 ES with a puzzling tail lamp problem. I get a tail lamp out indicator light on the dash when first turning on the lights, and going around back reveals a non-illuminated taillamp on the passenger side (the 96 ES has two dual-filament stop/tail lamps on each side). I have replaced both bulbs on each side, along with the license plate bulbs on each side (haven't touched the reverse lights or turn signals yet).

Here's the puzzling part. After about 15 minutes of driving, the taillamp out indicator goes out, AND the bulbs all work normally again (I'ved hopped out of the car with the engine still running/lights on to validate this).

What could be the issue here? Bad wiring harness on the passenger side? Or could it be a more serious electrical problem (perhaps the system doesn't get enough voltage to run all of the lamps until the alternator has been running a while, though I'm not noticing any dimming of the headlamps, or problems with the audio or climate control, nor any other warning lamps). Changing bulbs doesn't seem to do much help...

Thanks!

Last edited by squarehat; Jul 13, 2004 at 08:35 PM.

Jul 23, 2004 | 07:08 AM

Fisher503

Lead Lap

Joined: Mar 2004

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From: New York

Happened on my 98 ES Change all bulbs signal rear center brake reverse!

Jul 27, 2004 | 12:32 PM

Blanco

Lexus Test Driver

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From: Texas

I agree with Fisher. Sounds like you have a bad bulb somewhere. It's not totally gone, but with the right temp increase, or vibration from driving causes the connection to become good again. Swap ALL the remaining bulbs, then see where you're at.