Cargo area light

[russ_]

The light in the cargo area on my '96 doesn't come on when the door is opened. It works if you turn it on with the switch, so it isn't burnt out or anything. Is there a plunger or level switch somewhere that needs replacing? I'd like this function back if it's not a major undertaking.

 

[russ_]

Bump?

 

[Brilliant]

you already disassembled the switch and determined the plug is not supplying power to the switch

 

[e-caban]

This is really common with 3rd gens, the light comes on when the latch in the door is opened. apparently you need to take the back pannel off and do something with the switch, I had the same problem, but I gave up on it. please post if you find a solution though!

 

[So Many Roads]

I am also interested if anyone knows what triggers the rear hatch light.

I recently removed the back panel to to reattach the rear defroster tab (which had detached from the rear window). The rear defrost works perfectly now, but the rear hatch light flickers when the hatch is open. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Qyota]

The switch is inside the "sealed" rear gate latch (in the door itself). You need to remove the latch assembly, drill the large rivets to separate the pieces, and clean/repair the switch. There is a write up here or on Yotatech somewhere. For me, it hasn't been worth the trouble...yet. It is annoying though.

 

[So Many Roads]

Qyota - Thanks for the heads up. I think I found the thread you're referring to:

habanero's 1996 4Runner Build-Up Thread - Page 18 - YotaTech Forums

Starting with post 427. Also look at post 446, where Habanero suggests lubing the switch to see if that might solve the problem in a fraction of the time.

I'll give it a try and see if it helps. Thanks again.