1987 S4, changed HVAC actuators yesterday. Had center console out. Got it back together. No tail lights. Fuse is ok. Is there something under the center console that powers tail lights? Don't work when I hit brakes either. Signal lights work.

 

Did you disconnect any grounds to get to your actuator service?

 

Did you remove Pod for defrost actuator? might have disturbed ignition switch wires.

 

There really isn't anything related to the lights directly in the console... what else doesn't work?

HVAC, Fog lights, radio, etc?

Ignition switch, X bus/relay, light switch all come to mind... none really explains brakes & tail lamps

Alan

 

Alan,
I was thinking a missed CE panel ground while having serviced the recirc box.

 

Good post.
I have the same problem I recently realized. I was going to chase it this weekend
My first thought that maybe there is a wire near the master cylinder. Then check all the fuses. All my other lights work and I have had the center consul out but like Alan says I didn't see any wires that looked like they could be brake light related

 

Should the main ! light be on in this case? Can that wire connector go on upside down to the ! Light?

 

Check the connection to the bulb warning unit (near the ECU's) - that a place where all the rear lighting comes together.

Alan

 

Good call, Alan... IIRC the side/corner markers to no pass thru the bulb warning.

OP, the bulb warning is attached the the L-side of the right undertray, just above the CE panel.

 

Front & front/side markers do not - rear marker, rear/side marker and brake lights all do.

Oh so bulb warning unit location varied - good to know...

Alan

 

Before I tackled the console, my fog lights wouldn't work. Fuse was ok, bulbs on one side was ok. Having to figure out stripped screws in the other side before I can check them. Got valve grinding compound as recommended to tackle screws.

The connection I'm looking for is on the left side of the passenger tray? Is it a plug & play wire?

 

Didn't remove the pod.

 

Not that I know of. I'll double check later tonight

 

Fog lights don't work. Was having issue with those prior to actuator repair. Radio & HVAC works as it should. ! Lights operates correctly. No dash light to let me know they were out. Had to be told by an individual.

 

Thanks guys! I left wire unplugged by passenger tray.