I'm having a problem with my 1992 240 wagon, the brake lights don't work when the pedal is depressed as they should. The car is displaying a confusing set of symptoms which I haven't got the expertise to interpret. Please help!

The rear ambient running lights work (filament in the same bulb as the brake lights, bottom row). At first, I'd thought it was the brake light switch which was malfunctioning. I replaced the switch, but nothing changed. When the button on the brake light switch is released, I can hear an audible click coming from the shift lever area.

Finally, I shut the tailgate with some force last night and the brake lights magically started working again. Unfortunately, they only lasted long enough for a spin around the block, then stopped working again. Now thinking that the problem might be in the taillight, I took out each bulb socket and cleaned the contacts, no change. Still don't know how to explain the shift **** click phenomenon.

Can anyone help me out with this? I'd appreciate any advice.

 

I'd check the wiring connector to the tail light assemblies.

 

After some trouble shooting, it turned out to be one of the bulb sockets shorting out. Replaced it last night, works again. Thanks for the suggestion!