AllenTC2

Okay, so while I couldn't find anything by searching "reverse" or "back up" lights, I know I read here something about a switch on the transmission of the Cherokee that turns on your back up lights when you shift into "R". I also recall the part is very expensive, and removing/cleaning my current one is pretty time consuming (and given my mechanical abilities, the potential to break it is there LOL).

I've checked the bulbs, they're fine. Wires LOOK good. Is there anything else it could be INSTEAD of that switch on the tranny (I have an auto I6, if it matters)? And can someone give me a link to the thread with pictures on how to remove and repair that switch, if that's the only thing it could be?


Thank you!

RTorrez1

Here you go.
http://www.bc4x4.com/tech/2010/jeep-...ty-switch-nss/

AllenTC2

Thanks. Call me a wuss, but that looks intimidating. LOL

BlueRidgeMark

How did you check them?

That means nothing.

Get yourself a test light and find out if you have voltage at the sockets when the trans is in reverse.

Even if you do, it could still be that the sockets are a bit corroded, and just need cleaning. A bit of work with a wire brush might be all you need. The spot that often gets overlooked is the slot where the bayonets (yes, that's what they're called - the little pins that stick out) on the bulbs make contact.

AllenTC2

I bought brand new ones (can't hurt to have extra, right?) and tried them. And all the other lights back there work. That and the fact they appeared to have both quit at the same time....well, seems like something other than wiring or the bulbs.

TheMiddleMan

Couple tips I wish I knew before this happened to me...have someone stand behind the heep while you move the shifter back and forth a bit in the reverse spot, if the NSS is off by just a bit, the person behind will see them turn on and off. This will confirm the issue.

Do you have any starting issues? Like no start, but accessories come on? That's a good symptom.

This fix is not as hard as you think. I went in thinking I would bust something, but it is straight forward, just take your time and read that supplied link above carefully. Ohhhh, and buy lots of parts cleaner, it's going to be nasty in there

Good luck.

AllenTC2

Okay, I will try the shifting thing. I've had no issues with starting it.


So if the guy in back DOES see the light come on briefly, that means the NSS just needs moved a tad, correct?


Oh, I went on eBay last night and saw NSSs (NSSii?) for around $50. Are these to be avoided??

BlueRidgeMark

Yeah, probably so, which leaves you with a few choices:

1. Follow TheMiddleMan's advice for the shift test.
2. Test to make sure there's correct voltage going TO the NSS.
3. Buy a new one and swap it out.
4. Follow TheMiddleMan's advice for repairing the NSS.

I vote for #1, and if it's good, you are left with #2, and if that's good, you are at #3 or #4.


If it's NOT getting the correct voltage, you need to find out why.

BlueRidgeMark

I dimly recall reading another thread where that had not turned out well, but I'm sorry I don't have a link.


The real pros on this board generally recommend sticking with OEM for switches and sensors.

Roler

I would usually recommend OEM. To be honest, I could not get one here and actually got one of the cheaper ones from overseas (well, overseas for me, just US for you guys). It's been holding out for 18 months now, and appeared not too bad quality -wise. For 1/3 of the price of OEM, I calculate that I will probably have to replace it again at some point.

superbee1970440

I just removed and repaired mine. Mine was a little less straight forward because I had to fix all of the wires. Kind of a PITA.

Roler

With that, I would probably just get a new one...

AllenTC2

I assume that with that thing removed, the Jeep won't go? I may just get an eBay one so I have something to put on while I clean the OEM off.

C H E R O K E E 98XJ

I also got one off of ebay (autopartswarehouse I think) for $40 and would recommend it. I've had it for close to two years now and haven't had any problems. The quality felt the same also.

superbee1970440

I looked at Napa and saw $306. I fixed it. Seems to be good, for now. I had to at least try.