Reverse Light Switch

What is a Reverse Light Switch and where is it Located?

The reverse light switch, also known as the back-up light switch or lamp switch, activates the white reverse lights on your tail lights when you put the car into reverse. Reverse lights are an important safety feature of any car or truck as they allow to you inform other drivers around you that you intend to back up. This helps to eliminate potential accidents and mishaps.

In some cases, the switch is connected to the gear selector mechanism. When you shift the lever into reverse, it pushes a plunger that completes an electrical circuit. That causes the reverse lights to go on at the rear of your vehicle. Otherwise, the switch is mounted on the transmission and comes on when reverse is activated. 

How do I Know if my Reverse Light Switch Needs to be Replaced?

Since you can’t see the reverse lights from inside the vehicle, you may not even notice that they’re not working until well after the trouble has set in. If you do notice that the reverse lights aren’t casting any light when you back up at night, or someone tells you that your reverse lights aren’t coming on, or you fail a safety inspection because they are not working, then there may be a problem with your reverse light switch. If only one reverse light isn’t working, then the problem is probably with the bulbs or with the tail lamp assembly.

It’s a good idea to check the fuse and bulbs first, to make sure a simpler issue isn’t at play. If those potential problems have been eliminated, then you can turn your attention to the reverse light switch. One way to test that the reverse light switch is not working is to remove it and then connect the wires that lead into and out of the switch to each other. Then, if you turn the car’s electrical systems on, the reverse lights should be on. This demonstrates that the lamp switch is the culprit and not any other part of the system. 

The reverse light switch can fail due to corrosion of the metal conductors inside the switch or damage to the plunger suffered through time and normal wear and tear. 

Can I Replace a Reverse Light Switch Myself?

It’ll take a little effort, but you will probably be able to replace your reverse lamp switch by yourself. You’ll first need to gain access to the switch. If your reverse light switch is attached to the shifter, you’ll have to remove the center console which may involve disconnecting various console mounted switches. If the reverse light switch is attached to the transmission, you’ll have to access it underneath the vehicle. Either way, you’ll have to unscrew the old back-up light switch, disconnect the wires, connect the new one and screw it into place. 

Need a Reverse Light Switch Replacement?

Without a working reverse light switch, the reverse lights on your tail lamps won’t come on when you back up your vehicle. This could cause a myriad of issues including possibly damaging your car or someone else’s, as well as accidentally backing up into an innocent person. Neither of those outcomes is ideal for anybody. Luckily, if your lamp switch is shot, we carry a large selection of aftermarket reverse light switches for many makes and models, and at great prices.

At 1A Auto, we make shopping for a replacement back-up light switch for your car, truck, SUV, or van easy as well - we're here to help you select the right part for your vehicle! Call our customer service toll free at 888-844-3393 if you have any questions about our aftermarket reverse light switches, warranty, compatibility or to purchase, or you can buy online.