C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Backup lights not working 1996 CE

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Old Apr 4, 2025 | 07:31 PM
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Default Backup lights not working 1996 CE

Hi, 1996 CE, backup lights not working. 6spd manual. Bulbs work, fuse good, wires good, can't figure out what may be wrong. Any ideas? THX
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Old Apr 4, 2025 | 09:27 PM
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Check the reverse light switch on the transmission. To test it, just disconnect the wire connector from the switch, jump across the terminals with a wire or paperclip... If the lights come on, the bulbs and wiring are ok. That points to the switch. Might not be bad though..... Unscrew it from the transmission and try moving the little ball in and out.... it has a spring behind it... Clean it up...spray it with WD-40 or similar... That might loosen it up to where it works properly again.
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Old Apr 4, 2025 | 10:49 PM
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. But for what they cost and you have it in your hands put in a new one
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Old Apr 5, 2025 | 12:30 PM
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Originally Posted by s carter
. But for what they cost and you have it in your hands put in a new one

Im on board, but I also like fixing stuff... I figure if I can make something work again and put a few bux in my pocket, then heck, why not? Ive done that process I mentioned on a couple of my C4's and it worked happily ever after.... so why not try it for free?
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Old Apr 7, 2025 | 09:11 PM
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Thanks - i'll have to put car up on lift and try to find the switch. Do you know exact location?
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Old Apr 7, 2025 | 10:58 PM
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Originally Posted by jgonzo
Thanks - i'll have to put car up on lift and try to find the switch. Do you know exact location?
Its on the driver side of the transmission above the slave cylinder. 7/8" wrench I think IIRC.....
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Old Apr 8, 2025 | 01:12 AM
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Originally Posted by jgonzo
Thanks - i'll have to put car up on lift and try to find the switch. Do you know exact location?
some pictures in here.

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...amps-inop.html
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Old Apr 10, 2025 | 11:46 PM
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You think getting it out is hard. Wait until you have to thread the new one in blind with only the tips of two fingers.
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The backup light switch is a common problem on later C4's. I replaced mine easily after dropping the slave cylinder while leaving the hose connected.
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Old Apr 28, 2025 | 07:33 PM
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Thank you all for the information. I appreciate it.
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