I have 1 1993 240 wagon and the 3rd brake light is being difficult. It quit working and my Dad suggested checking if the contacts were touching on the light assy. So I got it working and shut the big back door. Slam. the light does not work again. It seems to be worn out does any one know of a replacement or fix.

 

Has the tailgate wiring harnesses been replaced? There is a left and right side.
That is a possible cause, also have you checked the grounds?

Good luck.

 

Without a doubt the harness that runs through the hinge from the body of the vehicle to the rear hatch could be an issue. Pop the headliner at the rear near the hinge. You should see a cable going up through the hinge area of the roof area to the back hatch, often surrounded with a black stickey rubbery sealant. My experience on the 240 series wagon is that if you lift the hatch, loosen the bolts attaching the hinge and pull back on the cable and relieve stress on the possible shorted wires, it may work temporarily. If the wires are actually broken, you may find more trouble, say, the brake light does not work or maybe the wiper motor no longer works. Either way, if you can get enough slack, you may be able to pull back the stressed area away from the hinging area, re-splice the broken/shorted wires and be good to go for a few more years.

I hope this helps.

regards

- rev -