One of the 3 connections on the brake lightbulb holder has melted the plastic in the light assembly. There is the residue from electrical singe. Can someone describe what would cause this to happen? Can I fix it by purchasing a new bulb holder or do I have a bigger electical issue?

 

Is this an aftermarket tail light assembly?

 

It may be. I had to replace it when some burke, likely in an SUV, broke it while parking. However, whether or not it is aftermarket what would cause the electrical issues where the connection overheats and melts the receptical? Can I simply replace the bulb holder and make sure the connection is solid in order to stop the arching?

 

I strongly suspect you have aftermarket tail light assemblies. Likely from Asia. I replaced my DL245 with those Asian replacements and they melted the housing. This takes some time but it happens. What I did is found the ones labeled MADE IN ESTONIA, and went with LED brake/tail light replacement bulbs. Got the taillight assy. of EBAY and the LEDs from:

http://www.superbrightleds.com/cgi-b...sp=%2F1157.htm

All has been well for over 12 months. From the dealer the OEM are expensive, for both sides I would guess at easily more than $200.

Remove the one of the tail light assemblies, it is quite easy, just make a map of assembly wiring. I bet you won't find a Volvo PN#

I hope this helps

 

Does anybody have a link to the ebay lights? Mine are all cracked and in need of replacement as well.

 

I looked just now, there are several vendors. I would try some and find out the country of origin. Like I said mine were made in Estonia, but I use the LED lamps. I would not trust any of the aftermarkets unless I used the LEDs.

No problem with the 'BULB OUT" feature, it just needs a balanced load to remain quite.

 

I have to agree 100% with Fred. The brake lamps generate a LOT of heat. Even o.e. lamps will melt. The worst culprits are city driving and automatic transmissions. With a manual, one might not have their foot on the brake at stoplights but w/ an auto it's a given. Too, previous owners occasionally install 2157 bulbs instead of the correct 1157 to get brighter brake lights. Recipe for meltage! I run LED bulbs at least on the brake lights, on every car I own. They draw less electricity, last much longer and get much less warmer than conventional bulbs. While I like my cars to appear stock at least at first glance, there are certain basic improvements that bring these cars well into the 21st century. Glass e-code headlamps for better visibility and LED's in the rear tail light assemblies are at the top of the list...imho.