Tail-lights acting funny

tikon · Jan 3, 2012

Hello,

My 04 XLE Ltd AWD tail-lights are misbehaving. A couple of days ago I was informed that my tail-lights system, 2 outside and 2 on lift door, are broken. However, the turn lights, the brake lights, and the reverse lights work.

I proceeded to remove the plastic lift door panels and checked the light bulbs. Indeed the 2 light bulbs on the lift door were broken. I replaced them with spare bulbs. Turned the light switch on, no lights.

Here is the funny part: When I remote start my Sienna, the tail-light system flashes twice then stays lit until I press the brake pedal to take it off the remote start.

Question 1: What do you think is the culprit?
Question 2: Would you consider the remote start to be a suspect? I have the remote start installed just over a month ago.

Thanks and Happy New Year!

brian_bp · Jan 4, 2012

tikon said:
Would you consider the remote start to be a suspect? I have the remote start installed just over a month ago.

Yes. Aftermarket electronic systems are often junk, installed by untrained and uncaring staff. I don't have one, and wouldn't buy one that didn't come from Toyota with their warranty, but that's just my preference.

If the control unit for the remote starter unplugs easily, completely removing it from any way to interfere with the Sienna's wiring, I would try doing that temporarily to see if the problem goes away. Even if the problem remains, it may still be wiring damage done in the installation.

The tail lamps should be run from the same circuit as the side and front marker (parking) lights. Do they work? Can you follow the tail lamp wiring in the wiring diagrams in the Toyota service documentation? You can subscribe for a couple days to Toyota Information System or download a ripped-off copy if you don't have the manual.

tikon · Jan 17, 2012

Thanks, Brian!

I took the van back to the remote starter installer to get the issue fix. Indeed the remote starter was the culprit. The installer used positive current instead of ground to the tail-lights, which over time burn out the fuse located somewhere in the engine area. This was determined once he got in touch with the technical resource from the remote starter manufacturer.

Tail-lights acting funny

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