What is a reverse-switch? What are the signs of a reverse switch malfunction? How to replace reverse gear switch ?….
What is Reverse Gear Switch and how does it work?
This electronic switch is responsible for activating the reverse lights to alert pedestrians and drivers that the vehicle is in reverse. “Reverse” switch”. The reverse lights won’t turn on when reverse gear is engaged. This can cause dangerous situations for pedestrians as well as drivers. The lights and the audible alarm system are activated in some vehicles such as buses or trucks.
The reverse switch can be found in the lower part of the gearbox. The location of the gearbox lies close to the engine. If this part fails, you should immediately contact an authorized service provider or repairer who is experienced in this field.
Reverse Switch Malfunction Symptoms
To increase safety and avoid accidents, all vehicles should have reversing lights. If the switch that controls them is damaged, this safety feature will be disabled.
The malfunctioning rear white light(s), if they aren’t lit when reverse gear is engaged must be investigated. The reverse switch is powered by an electric current and receives its power from the battery. It is very unlikely that it will fail because it is such a simple system. If a fault occurs in the reverse switch, there are certain symptoms that will notify the driver.
Intermittent Operation Reversing Lamps
One sign of sensor failure is flashing or not working of the reverse lights. A sensor that is worn or damaged can cause lights to flash frequently.
Continuous Flashing of Reversing lights
A faulty switch can also cause reversing lamps to be on indefinitely. Reversing lamps that are constantly on will be a sign of a bad switch. Although this will end the life expectancy of the bulbs it may cause confusion for pedestrians or drivers as the vehicle will appear to be moving backwards.
Reversing lamps not working at all
If the reversing lights stop working, it is a sign that the switch is failing. The switch that controls the lamps directly is called the reverse switch. The switch that controls the lamps will fail to turn on the lights and cut off the control. This will not alert pedestrians and drivers when the vehicle is in reverse, and could lead to a dangerous situation.
Causes of Reverse Gear Switch Fault
• Reversing bulbs have blown.
• The fuse of the lamps has blown.
• Light bulb cables have been corroded.
• Oxidation has occurred where the reversing switch socket enters.
• The reversing relay located right next to the battery is oxidized.
• The cables connecting the reverse switch and the headlight socket have been damaged.
Reverse Switch Replacement
It is easy to switch the reverse button as it is located in a convenient location. The reverse gear switch is found on most cars’ gearboxes. This should be completed after performing all necessary checks. These are the steps to be followed:
• The car is stopped and the battery is disconnected.
• The vehicle is taken off the lift. If it does not have a lift, it can be lifted with a crane.
• The position of the reverse switch is detected.
• The gear lamp socket on the reverse gear switch is removed. To confirm the fault, a small test can be performed. The switch’s polarity is not correct. The sensor may be the reason the lamps don’t turn on. If the lamps don’t light up when the cable is short-circuited, it could be the conductivity or connection of the cables to the lamp.
• Check for oxidation at the tip of the reversing lamp sockets. It is important to clean any oxidation and check if the socket is still working.
• If the problem persists after all checks are made, the reverse gear switch is removed and replaced with a new one. It is best to replace the sensor housing as soon as possible, since oil will leak from it.
• Finally, the reverse gear switch socket is inserted and the system is checked.
