no reverse lights

[AdamB]

I have not got any power at my reverse lights. there is power in the fuse box, and from there i presume it must go to some contact when you put it into reverse. Is this correct and if so could it be the problem, and how do I get to it? MOTs coming up soon so I think I should get it sorted!

[seyles]

There's a switch in the gearbox (can't remember exactly where, no MK1 since '98). Simple plunger type, screws in, two terminals on the outside. Switch makes when in reverse, lights come on if ignition is on.

Could be the connections, check wires tight in crimps and that mating surfaces are clean. Check if it's the switch by shorting out the two connectors to see if the lights come on.

Good luck.

[richandhazel]

I agree with Seyles, it may well be your switch. Follow your speedo cable down towards your gearbox and you should find the switch. There is another type of switch that can be fitted which unfortunately I have on my gearbox. I replaced my gearbox and so this one has a different sender unit to the one that Seyles describes..........this means I don't have reversing lights either. The good news is, you don't need them for your MOT

[richandhazel]

Mine has just passed its MOT without them. I'm certain you don't need them but I'll check........back soon.

[richandhazel]

According to the testers manual, they aren't checked, unless I'm missing something:-

http://www.motuk.co.uk/manual/mot_section_one.htm

Actually this is a really good resource:-

http://www.motuk.co.uk/welcome.htm

[AdamB]

I've just checked with the brother-in-law, who does MOTs, and he said you dont need them. So that jobs got a lower priority now  

[stoat]

you dont need them, I just found that out this weekend through some random conversation

[AdamB]

I have checked the lights work by putting a connection between the pins on the plug that goes to the gearbox. This worked out fine, so it looks as though it is the relay in the gearbox. I have no continuity between the pins when it is in reverse  (multimeter saves the day again). Now I need to know how hard these things are to change, and how can I get my hands on one?