So I get that the dash indicator light (when lights are on) is supposed to mean a bulb is out, in this case a rear bulb. However I don't see any bulbs out, even with a weight on the brake pedal to test those too.

Does the indicator ever mean pending failure or is there really a bulb out and I just don't see it? Mine comes on when I tap the brakes (to shift out of park) whether lights are on or not, then it stays on until I shut off.

 

If it is when you shift out of park? (Check your reverse lights) If it's when you put your foot on brakes before you shift then it may be your third brake light. Mine does it sometimes b/c of a loose connection in the bulb socket. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. (Like everything else on this car)

 

I know when mine started doing that i couldn't find the bad bulb. Turned out to be the harness on the passenger side. Bad socket.

 

remember to check the 3rd brake light on the rear deck.

 

+1 and change both lamps, even if they're lit. Mine were lit, but they looked dark like they were burnt or something. After changing both lamps, the trouble light went out. Evidently, the lamp resistance changes over time and kicks the trouble light on.

 

I have checked, rechecked and checked again. There is no light out back there.

 

Even if the lamps are working, the internal resistance may have changed, which forces the tail light indicator light on. Some have corrected it by replacing the high mount brake light bulbs, as PD suggested. I would try changing them first, even if they still appear to be good.

 

..you did check your turn signals and reverse lights too, right?