Guide To Replacing Reverse Light Switch

[adder360]

I had some problems with the activating of my reverse lights and
then my reverse parking sensors and camera. I did some fault finding
and found out it was the switch so I bought a new one decided to
write it up as I couldn’t find much helpful on the topic.

I did this on an 09 plate 1.6 TDCI so might be different for outer
types

I used the following tools:

22mm double depth socket (and ratchet)

7mm socket + ratchet +extension

8mm rat ring (could use a small 8mm socket and ratchet)

first I used the 7mm to remove the cover of the air box (4 bolts)

then I removed the air filter and prepared to remove the air box

I then removed where the air box is connected to the engine by
removing what im guessing is the air flow meter 8mm 2 bolts

now the elastic holding the air box down at the front needs to be removed

now this is detached the box will just pull out from the 2 rubber mounts and from the pipe at the front, it takes some wiggling, now you can see the switch

using a piece of wire you can confirm the switch is faulty and the rest of the circuit is ok.

as you can see you need a double depth to fit over the plug part

the 22mm socket just fits over the switch and I attached the ratchet and removed it, it becomes lose after just un nipping it

I could put my hand to the left of the battery so I was able to see what I was doing when putting the new switch in

now was just a case of testing and putting the air box back, whilst I had the air filter out I thought I might as well put a green cotton one on :)

I hope this is helpful

[jeebowhite]

A good writeup! hopefully will come use to someone!

Does the green cotton filter not have an airbox around it? or does it just draw air from the air around it, rather than through the front vents?

[adder360]

It is located as the normal air filter is I just took the picture of it before I put the top of the air box back on

[jeebowhite]

aaah ok, I didnt realise that it fit in the casing, I thought it was only suitable for a panel filter, but my deviations aside, still a very handy guide!

[stef123]

Very helpful, great guide.

[dangerousdave74]

Was the problem you was having that sometimes the reverse lights wouldn't come on when you selected reverse gear?

[photoangel]

This is different from mine ,I have seen you may have to jack up the engine, I do not know whereas there is a big cover underside. I may have to go on a lift to get under side to take it off. please look at these photos. As mine is a 1800 TDCI 2004 late early 5 3 door hatchback.  Hope this sheds ;light on it all. If I get the thing replaces lol Let there be the backlight. (reverse switch)

[photoangel]

Ok I found a way to avoid having to go down through the engine mounts as so many have!

Take out the battery and battery tray, careful of clips holding wires. You may have to cut the clips holding and then when replacing use tie raps/ cable ties.

Next undo the sensor off the air filter. Remove bolts on the air filter. Lift the lid up and remove the bottom tray to the air filter.  This may be a good time to clean the air filter too.

Step 3 is the pull away to the right, the air intake hose.  Once this is clear you can see from looking down under the filter area where the switch as in the photo. 

Take the connector off and then with size 22 spanner. open end or if you have one along reach socket.  try the spanners on the new replacement to try if you have already bought one as I did. IIt is fiddly, bit by bit you can undo the switch.  Normally as this did, As soon as it is loose, you and undo it and take it out with your fingers.  Replace and do the reverse for all.

[photoangel]

Sadly after doing all this.  I turned on the ignition and the reverse light when putting the car into reverse still does not work, I tested the old switch, It is fine, Checked fuses under the dash behind glove compartment ALL FINE!     Somewhere somehow there must be a short.H ow to test? as the tester show, no resistance Needle goes over. No power at all . 

[mrbiscuit]

2010 focus 1.6 tdci 5 speed.

No dismantling is necessary. 

Switch is visible to left of battery through gap between engine. 

This can be replaced in 15 mins, with 22mm deep socket,1/2 inch articulate  joint, short extension, then long extension.

Once your left arm is in there, everything is done by feel, as no visibility possible.

[Sean_Morgan]

Anyone know where the reverse light switch is for a ford focus zetec 1.6 2007? Need help thanks.