W126 tail light
 

Ok, my problem started about 2-3 weeks ago. At first, the reverse lamp on the driver's side would not work. I tried switching out bulbs from the rear fog light (the assembly is from a Euro version) since they are of the same wattage and size. That didn't work. Both bulbs are not burnt out, so I know it wasnt the bulbs. So about a week ago, the reverse light starts working again all by itself. On Thursday night, my tail light on the driver's side stopped working. I checked the bulb, it was not burnt out. I cleaned out the sockets, still not working. I even tried new bulbs. Nothing works. Has anyone here ever experienced this problem before, because I cannot drive at night or in the rain without the fear of being hassled by a police officer for having a light. I need to know what else I need to check, and if I need to replace the assembly or not, and how to fix it if I can.
-Joe

My reverse lights havent worked for 14 months. I need to get it checked out. My bulbs are just fine too...

I would think it would be a fuse-box related matter.

Open up the fuse box, and check that the relevant fuses are snapped in place. They have a tendency to be loose, so you may not have some lights working.

That would be a start.

TAIL LIGHTS
 

I would first check the fuse, like others have suggested, and make sure the fuse is good and making good connection. Then I would check the tail light wiring for a short. it sounds like you have a short somewhere in the line where power is sent to the tail light assembly. If it is just one light such as the reverse light on one side, it is probably in the line going to that specific light. Be sure the sockets are in good condition. Scott

How would I check for a short? Would I need a particular tool or something? I know how to check fuses of course.
-Joe

Another possibility is the switch on the transmission that sould, I believe, connect the back-up lights when in reverse gear.

Re: lights
 

A tip I picked up from Dr Easley's MB discussion list was to change all the fuses about every 10 years. The older "bullet" type fuses are not that durable. The heating/cooling cycles and occasional twist to ensure good contact take their tolls. This may not solve your light problem, but may head off future intermittant electrical problems.

Ken Juul
91 300SE
85 380SL
87 325ic

thats funny,

one of my front fogs works intermitently sometimes, when i go to check and replace to blub... as is well. the wiring looks good as well, checked that, and the fuse box contains all new fuses! go figure

its a mystery bulb...