Ford Focus Light Replacement Problem

[2L84SLEEP]

Hi folks

Now first off, I am a complete car novice, which you are going to see but I am hoping someone could help me.

My 53 plate Ford Focus is coming up for its MOT and a couple of the lights are out, namely front left dipped beam and back left tail/brake light. I know the front left on a Ford Focus is a pain to change so was leaving that for the moment. The back left looked easy enough so thought I would try that. The back left light was coming on when I braked but not when I had the lights on just at night. This is where I show my stupidity, I thought there was actually two lights in the back unit, one for braking and one for the lights dohhh What I have realised now is it is just the same light but must get extra power when you brake!

I have put a new bulb in but am still getting the same problem, nothing from the bulb when I have just my lights on, but comes on when I brake!! Would anyone be able to advise what is causing this? Would it also be connected to my problem with my front left dipped beam? Light comes out when I have it on half lights but just stays the same when I put it on full.

Thanks for any help

 

[IAmATeaf]

Check the bulb to make sure it's working by putting it in the other side. If it works then it points to a cabling problem in which case you'll have to wait for somebody more knowledgeable to come along as I know naff all about this

 

[The_Abyss]

Sounds like the bulb is blown at the front, and there's some loose wiring at the rear.

 

[Sin_Chase]

For the leftside front light removing the battery covers helps to get your hands in there.