2007 HHR Electrical Issue with Tail Lights
 

Hello everyone,

I've searched the forum and couldn't find anything directly related to the problem I'm experiencing.

Here's the scenario.

It seems to only happen on very hot days when my HHR has been sitting in the hot sun after driving for a while. It doesn't happen if it has sat in the driveway, only after it has been driven.

My tail lights will not work. The headlights work, turn signals work, MOST of the dash lights work. (the lights on the dash that don't work are the lights on the shifter, around the radio and the light on the ceiling that comes on when the headlights are on)

Strange huh?

Well, even stranger, they will randomly come back on while driving. Nothing seems to cause them to come back on, they just do.

I've taken it to a garage several times but they always work when I take it there. The mechanic will say, bring it back when it's not working and of course, they are closed when it happens at night. lol

Anyone experience this?

Some notes:
Bulbs are fine
Fuses are fine
wiring has no noticeable breaks, tears, etc...

Welcome to the forum! Since you're having the issue on hot days I'd have your mechanic check the BCM or Body Control Module. Its located in the center console by the passenger's feet and it controls the lighting functions of the vehicle.

Since your issue appears when the interior temperature is elevated I'm thinking the module may be starting to fail. Temperature extremes can point out or exacerbate problems with computer modules in vehicles.

thanks, I'll ask him to check it this week. I hope that's it, I've been pulled over by the police three times, luckily with repair tickets as proof, they only give me a warning.

Keep us posted on what your tech finds, and once again...Welcome!

Have you tried disconnecting the battery to reset the BCM?

No, I have not tried that. I'm up for anything that might help.

Have you turned on the headlamps with the switch to see what happens?

I'm not sure I totally understand what you mean... but, it happens in the Auto position and when the headlamps are turned on.

I think he meant using the on position as opposed to auto.... Which you have done. Trying to rule out an "auto" only problem I would guess.

tail lights problem
 

I have the exact same symptoms - tail lights out and radio/console out also.
Touching the brake petal sometimes bring them back until the petal is released.
The Ohio state police pulled me over Sunday evening and I had to complete my last 250+ miles with my 4-ways on. I think I can still hear the click-click in my head. Other cars do give you some room that way. I will take it to the Chevy dealer tomorrow for a "look see".