Reversing light switch

Although not an MOT requirement, the owner of a 2009 Ford Transit Connect asked us to fix the nonworking reversing lights at the same time as their test. Our first move was to check the bulbs. It is very often the case with reversing and brake lights that one bulb can fail and go unnoticed until the second bulb blows. At this stage, as neither bulbs are working, it is assumed that the problem is something more serious.

As both bulbs were OK, our next move was to check the reversing light switch; on the Transit Connect this sits right at the top of the gearbox, but hidden by the air filter housing and the battery. The easiest way to access it is to remove the battery and air filter housing so you can test it with a meter. This confirmed that the switch on this van had failed.