Tail and Dash Lights not working

[jeff8781]

Hey guys, just picked up a 94 4runner and the tail and dash lights are not working. I have gone through and checked all the fuses as well as replaced the tail relay and still nothing. It has an aftermarket CD player that was installed by the previous owner so I am not sure if the lights worked since it was installed. Any ideas or tips to get these working again???

 

[fourwd1]

Both the tail lights and dash lights are powered by the 15A TAIL fuse via the Tail light Relay, so double check those.

 

[jeff8781]

I replaced the relay and now the fuse (on the top right of the fuse box just under the relay) blew, I put in a new 15A and it blew immediately. Unfortunately electrical is not my forte. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

 

[fourwd1]

In that case you have a short somewhere, and it's probably not going to be easy to find.
First thing would be if you have wiring for trailer lights, the problem could be there, it's a common source of problems like yours.

 

[jeff8781]

I do have trailer light hookup. I will disconnect and cap them. Or do I need to trace all the wires?

 

[jeff8781]

That did the trick!!! Disconnected the trailer lighting harness, popped in a new fuse and bingo we got power!!! Thanks for the help I appreciate it!!

 

[fourwd1]

No problem.
It's nice when an electrical problem has a simple fix.