My GMC Savana 2500 Brake Lights Won't Work

Troubleshooting your GMC Savana's brake lights takes only a few minutes.

The brake lights on your GMC Savana help prevent against accidents by warning other drivers that you are braking. If the brake lights go out, not only do you need to worry about potential accidents, but many states have given their police force the authority to issue "fix it" tickets. You may receive a citation from the local authorities if your brake lights are malfunctioning. Thankfully, there is a quick and simple process to troubleshoot brake lights.

Things You'll Need

• Socket wrench
• Replacement bulb
• Fuse extractor
• Replacement fuse

Instructions

1. Turn off the Savana's engine and open the rear door. Push in the socket protector on the inside of the door until you can see the tail lamp fasteners. Remove the two nuts behind the tail lamp assembly with a socket wrench. Remove the two nuts above the assembly. Lift the lamp as you rotate it towards the rear of the vehicle. This will expose the sockets and electrical connector. Pull on the electrical connector. If it comes out, securely plug it into the rear of the tail lamp assembly. If the headlights are still malfunctioning, the bulb will need to be replaced.

2. Squeeze the tab on the side of the sockets while rotating them counterclockwise. Rotate the old bulb counterclockwise to remove it. Install the new 3057-type bulb into the assembly and rotate it clockwise to secure it. Reattach the socket to the assembly and place the assembly back into the vehicle. Reattach the four nuts and close the rear door. If the headlights are still malfunctioning, there may be a fuse problem.

3. Locate the fuse block access door on the driver's side of the instrument panel, above the hood release lever. Rotate the fastener on the door counterclockwise to remove it. On the underside of the fuse block access door you will find a fuse extractor and several spare fuses. Locate the fuse labeled "STOP." It is the first fuse at the bottom-left corner of the fuse block. Check to see if it is broken. If the metal inside the fuse is broken, the fuse will need to be replaced. Pull the fuse out using the fuse extractor tool and use one of the spare fuses to replace it. The replacement fuse has to be of the exact same amperage as the original fuse. Place the door back onto the fuse block.

Tips & Warnings

• If your brake lights are still not functioning properly, take your vehicle to a certified technician to inspect your vehicle's electrical system.

References

• "2001 GMC Savana 2500 Owner's Manual;" General Motors Corporation; 2000