"Tail Light" error light on in my Cluster?

[MPDano]

I have the "Tail Light" error light illuminated on my Dash. It keeps triggering the (!) light, so I have to keep resetting it. I checked my tail lights and they are fine, turn signals too.

I am wondering if this means something else and maybe this has happened to someone else and resolved it. Stumped

BTW, this is on my 83 "S"

[neil30076]

Happened infrequently on my 81 - I replaced all the tail and side light bulbs with fresh ones and haven't seen it since.

[riber.bentsen]

The system works by detecting different current draw on either side of the car. So, for instance, if you have a 5w bulb in the left hand cluster, and a 10w in the other the warning will trigger. Such a small wattage difference is not apparent to the naked eye and it can take some time figuring out... (Ask me how I know)

Another option (if it's not a fault within the control unit itself) is, that one sides wires, bulb socket or even bulb cord is corroded and therefore draws more amps. Anyway, gotta crack open those taillights and check it out bro!

[tychain99]

my stop light indicator illuminates when i start my car, i tap the brake, and it disappears. all my bulbs and markers work, Idk it does this but it is one of the few quirks i have found in my car.

[neil30076]

Originally Posted by tychain99

my stop light indicator illuminates when i start my car, i tap the brake, and it disappears. all my bulbs and markers work, Idk it does this but it is one of the few quirks i have found in my car.

Stop light warning light should come on when you start, and go off when you apply pressure to the brake pedal - yours is working correctly.

[riber.bentsen]

Originally Posted by tychain99

my stop light indicator illuminates when i start my car, i tap the brake, and it disappears. All my bulbs and markers work, idk it does this but it is one of the few quirks i have found in my car.

rtfm!!!!

[neil30076]

LOL ^^^
tychain99 - do you have the owners manual?

[Mrmerlin]

Dano you most probably have a side marker light thats corroded I would inspect all 4 of them and install new side maker bulbs.
Also check the connections in the hatch area for the side markers.
Also make sure the bulbs match side to side in the rear and front
for parking ,
turn and brake sections