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2019 Pilot Rear Taillight Not Working, Brake Light Is Fine

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:49 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 Honda Pilot EX-L

I have a strange issue with my 2019 Honda Pilot EX-L. The driver's side rear taillight (running light) is completely out, but the brake light and turn signal in the same assembly work perfectly fine.

I already tried replacing the bulb, thinking it was just a simple burnt-out filament, but that didn't fix it. The new bulb still doesn't light up for the running light function.

Could this be a wiring issue, a fuse, or maybe even a problem with the light assembly itself? All other lights on the car are working correctly.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:49 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

This is a common scenario that often points to a specific electrical issue, especially since your brake light and turn signal in the same assembly are working. This suggests the bulb itself is likely fine (assuming it's a dual-filament bulb, which is typical for combined running/brake lights) and the ground connection is also good.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Check the Bulb Type: Confirm you're using the correct dual-filament bulb (e.g., 7443 or 3157, depending on your Pilot's specific setup). These bulbs have two filaments: one for the dimmer running light and one for the brighter brake light. If only one filament is burned out, or if you accidentally installed a single-filament bulb, it would explain your symptoms.
  2. Inspect the Socket: Carefully examine the bulb socket for corrosion, bent pins, or signs of melting. A poor connection in the socket can prevent one of the filaments from receiving power.
  3. Fuse Box Inspection: While it's less common for a single running light to have its own dedicated fuse separate from the other running lights, it's worth checking the vehicle's fuse box (both under the hood and possibly inside the cabin). Look for the fuse labeled for 'tail lights', 'running lights', or 'parking lights'. If all other running lights are working, this is less likely to be the primary cause, but a specific circuit could be involved.
  4. Wiring Continuity (Advanced): If you have a multimeter, you can test for voltage at the running light wire leading to the socket. With the running lights on, you should see 12V at the appropriate pin in the socket. If there's no voltage, the issue is upstream in the wiring harness. This could be a break in the wire, a faulty connection within the harness, or a problem with the body control module (BCM) that controls the lighting.

When to See a Shop: If you've confirmed the bulb type, inspected the socket, and checked the fuses without success, or if you're not comfortable performing electrical tests with a multimeter, it's best to take your Pilot to a professional mechanic. Diagnosing wiring issues can be complex and requires specific tools and expertise to trace the circuit back to its source. A shop can quickly identify a break in the wire, a faulty connector, or a potential issue with the vehicle's BCM.

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