Ford Escot R Reg Estate Light Problem and overheating

gazzacus · 11-03-2009, 07:59 AM

Hi i own a Ford escort Estate R Reg 1.4, recently i have been experiencing problems with the rear tail lights and the dash lights. When i turn the switch on the stalk to turn the lights on the headlights come on as normal but no dash lights or taillights. If i switch them on and off a few times (most so far been 15 times) I've managed to get the dash lights on but no taillights. I've checked the bulbs and all the light fuses and they're all fine.

Also ever since having my cam belt done the cars temp gauge has been going up as far as the beginning of the red, I'm hoping this is just a case of a faulty thermostat any other suggestions. Although just the other day the car was staying in the red for a long time and i had to put the heaters on full to help cool her down all the water had boiled away as well . the fan is also making a whining sound when it kicks in.

Any help on either matter would be much appreciated

**octaneman** · 11-03-2009, 08:53 AM

Hi gassacus

This type of electrical problem shows up frequently on Ford's, the switch in question is integrated with the dimmer and located on the dash. The switch connector plug short circuits because the pins are not making contact causing the plug to burn. Remove the switch and have it tested with a DVOM. Replace the plug if any connectors are loose or show signs of any burn marks.

Ford escort timing belts get damaged because they ride on the water pump. When the engine begins to show signs of overheating, the water pump is beginning to seize up and it won't be long until it takes out the timing belt. When that happens , the valves will freewheel causing expensive damage to the cylinder head. It is good practice that when changing the timing belt the water pump also has to be replaced.

Good luck !

11-03-2009, 07:59 AM	#1 (permalink)
gazzacus Registered User Join Date: Nov 2009 Posts: 2 OS: xp	Ford Escot R Reg Estate Light Problem and overheating Hi i own a Ford escort Estate R Reg 1.4, recently i have been experiencing problems with the rear tail lights and the dash lights. When i turn the switch on the stalk to turn the lights on the headlights come on as normal but no dash lights or taillights. If i switch them on and off a few times (most so far been 15 times) I've managed to get the dash lights on but no taillights. I've checked the bulbs and all the light fuses and they're all fine. Also ever since having my cam belt done the cars temp gauge has been going up as far as the beginning of the red, I'm hoping this is just a case of a faulty thermostat any other suggestions. Although just the other day the car was staying in the red for a long time and i had to put the heaters on full to help cool her down all the water had boiled away as well . the fan is also making a whining sound when it kicks in. Any help on either matter would be much appreciated

11-03-2009, 08:53 AM	#2 (permalink)
octaneman Mentor Home Support, Gearhead Automotive Center Join Date: May 2009 Posts: 541 OS: WINXP	Re: Ford Escot R Reg Estate Light Problem and overheating Hi gassacus This type of electrical problem shows up frequently on Ford's, the switch in question is integrated with the dimmer and located on the dash. The switch connector plug short circuits because the pins are not making contact causing the plug to burn. Remove the switch and have it tested with a DVOM. Replace the plug if any connectors are loose or show signs of any burn marks. Ford escort timing belts get damaged because they ride on the water pump. When the engine begins to show signs of overheating, the water pump is beginning to seize up and it won't be long until it takes out the timing belt. When that happens , the valves will freewheel causing expensive damage to the cylinder head. It is good practice that when changing the timing belt the water pump also has to be replaced. Good luck ! Last edited by octaneman; 11-03-2009 at 08:54 AM.