cambodianricer

Car: 2000 E320

Issue: Brake lights are not working, only the 3rd brake light is

The story:

Well, let me give you guys some background, before all of the brake lights were working, then I switched some brake sockets around and it blew a fuse, after that I replaced the fuse and the brake switch and now only the 3rd brake light works while the left and right brake lights don't work. They turn on when the headlights are on though.

I checked all of the fuses and they seem to be all fine. Unless there are more fuses to look at, I looked under the hood, under the rear seats and right when you open the driver door.

Also, I'm not sure where to buy the OEM sockets and bulbs aside from the stealership.

The biggest problem is that my mom got a fix it ticket for the brake lights

Any ideas how to fix it?

rmfnla

"I switched some brake sockets around..."

What does that mean?

Are you an automotive engineer? A half-decent mechanic?

What were you trying to accomplish and did you know what you were doing?

cambodianricer

Well, on the left and right side tail lights there's two bulbs / sockets that hold the bulbs in, I switched them between each other not knowing that theyre different sockets and it blew a fuse.

j21importer

check the tail lamp circuit board were the brake lamp sockets plug into. check to see if the contacts burned up. this is very common on 210 chassis vehicles. usually we replace the taillamp assemblies but you could hardwire the socket if this is your issue

cambodianricer

How would I check if the contacts are burned up? Should I use a multimeter?

And how do you hardwire the socket?

rmfnla

No offense, but I think you've done enough already.

I strongly suggest you take it to a qualified mechanic. A stereo installer could probably help, too.

It's pretty clear you don't know what you are doing and electronics are not at all forgiving to mistakes.

j21importer

look at the metal contact points where the socket contacts the grid. look at the plastic and the metal contact area to see if it has any burn areas or melted into the plastic. sometimes you could back the socket up a little (not fully seat it) and you can get it to work. if this is your problem its best to get a new tail lamp assembly. however you could wire the socket one side would have to be the feed from the tail lamp connector and one side to a ground.

jrumman

can be from the rear sam (fuse box)
but it is need scanner and tech to deside that.
sorry
but you can try to replace the rear same by used one and see!