Brake lights

[Larryejoh 2]

This problem started the other day. My third brake light, hazards and turn signals all work but the brake lights do not. I replaced the brake light switch and played with the adjustment and they still do not work. I have turn signal synchronizers installed but they have been on the car for a few years and never gave me any problems. Could it be an issue with the turn signal switch?

[padgett 2,058]

If the third light works then it is probably not the switch. I'd look for a bad ground.

[DAVES89 835]

7 minutes ago, padgett said:

If the third light works then it is probably not the switch. I'd look for a bad ground.

And I would start at the progressive lights at the trunk...

[Barney Eaton 1,398]

You do not indicate what year Reatta you have........that is important as there were running changes on lots of areas.

Does the turn indicator on the dash work?

Everything point to a bad turn signal switch. 

If you can get to the wires coming out of the switch,  the yellow (left side) and dark green (right side) wire feeds the rear brake lights.

 

[Larryejoh 2]

It’s a 1990. And yes the indicator on the dash works.

[Larryejoh 2]

I believe it’s in the turn signal switch. If I move the tilt wheel around when the brakes are applied the lights will come on. Do you need that special tool to push down on the plate under the air bag clock spring to get the retainer off or is it possible to do it without it?