mkozink

I have a 1996 993TT with a third brake light that does not illuminate (none of the bulbs light). Any one have any suggestions as to where to start to trouble shoot? I did a search of the forums but all I could find was references to the 1995 993 third brake light which is different from the 1996-1998 993.

Thanks in advance for any guidance- Matt

epj993

You might start with the www.p-car.com DIY. There's two repair items, one for replacing light bulbs and one for fixing broken wiring.

chris walrod

First, ensure your regular brake lights work. Then, pull-up the TBL cover or fairing. This will expose the 'stuff.' Then, with a volt meter, check for voltage at the brown and black wires that poke through near the top center of the window. This will give you a starting point.

martyp

I'm considering purchase of a 96 that is in need of a solder repair for the third brake light (came up under PPI). I was told that the rear window would need to be removed, the light hardware accessed and bad joint re-soldered, and the window put back in. Total cost estimated @ $150. FWIW anyway.

ChrisA

If voltage is found at the two solder points on the inside of the car, but not at the connections on the outside of the window then the electrical connection between the two is damaged. As an alternative to removing the glass and fixing a weak point in this electrical design I bypassed this portion of the circuit by routing two new wires through the rubber seal between the body and glass and connecting these wires directly to the two wires found on the inside of the car. I was able to bring the wires directly through the rubber seal, but later found an alternative suggestion on this forum that involved drilling two small holes just above the glass to enable an easier passage for the wires. Either method offers a good solution.

DocTock993

Should you find that you need a new light bar - although honestly it sounds like you have an electrical problem - I have a BNIB OEM light bar available.

mkozink

Thanks for everyone's insight and assistance.

Yes- the rear brake lights work. Only the third lights are malfunctioning.

Chris- what is the "TBL" cover? I am not familiar with this acronym.

epj993- I thought of p-car.com but did not go there yet. Based on your input I will visit immediately.

I will keep all interested parties appraised of my progress.

epj993

TBL is 993 shorthand for "Third Brake Light".