[Cheropair]

OP posted in Knowledge Base, unable to reply - here is original -
chadjamr
Junior Member Join Date: Jan 2011
Posts: 1


Tail Lights Won't Turn Off!!!!

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I have a 2007 Jeep Patriot 4 cylinder. My tail lights have not turned off for 3 days. It doesn't matter wither the keys are in or out of the ignition or the car is on or off. The only thing not stock is the hitch. I have changed both bulbs which didn't help. Any suggestions would be welcome.

 

[Cheropair]

Which lights are on?
Each of the tailights contain several seperate circuits - turn signal, brake signal, running lights, and reverse lights. My best guess would be that you have issues with the turn signals - each side runs through a diode pack, or uses a relay, to allow the combination of turn signals with the brake lights for the trailer use. Try disconnecting the trailer wiring and see if that cures the problem - if so, that gives you your answer.
Just went through this with the daughter's Liberty - UHaul adapter went south. Be sure to use the Jeep wiring harness the uses relays - using a universal adapter with diodes may cause issues with the PCM thinking you have a short.
Good Luck!

 

[todde702]

I saw this posted last night and tried to respond, not realizing it was in the KB forum. Anyway, is it the tail light or the brake light that is staying on? If it's the brake light, more then likely the Brake light switch on the brake pedal has failed, become disconnected or is out of adjustment. Try pulling up on the brake pedal to see if the light goes out.

 

[Ignatz]

Try pulling up on the brake pedal to see if the light goes out.

That's how my Dad 'fixed' his '69 Dodge -- just kicked up the brake pedal on exiting. Solid car otherwise, but it could run down the battery if parked for an extended period.