Jeep grand cherokee tail lights not working

Just what it says. When headlights are on, the (red) tail lights aren’t lit.

They do light up for brake lights. Reverse lights work, and blinkers work. I’ve tried new bulb to no effect. Could this be a fuse thing?

(2006 4.7L WK)

I would check fuse with 12 volt test light for power on both sides with lights on. If you have power there, next check for power in the connector at the tail light. You will need a torx driver to remove the tail light assembly. If you have power there then the connector may need some checking.

Are your front driving lite/ forward blinkers working ? I’m having exact same issue but only on driver side and its both front driving amber bulb and the 3157 bulb running light. Both bulbs work as a blinker and brake but not regular running light at all. I looked for blown fuse but nothing I could see. I’m gonna unhook negative for a bit cuz that has worked for some random electrical issues in past forum posts. Keep me updated on where you find fix and ill do same.

This is exactly what is happening. Put in new bulbs - they work with blinker and the brake lights work, but no running lights when lights are on. I’m gonna do the negative unhook too, that sounds like a cheap and easy test.

Harper Ellis did that fix it ?

I did fix it.

But leading up to it, I tried all the other simple tricks - i.e. I put in new bulbs in both the middle socket (blinker) and top socket (tail lights/park lights).

I bent the metal tabs of the socket backs (that hold the bulb) out so they would have more contact with the electrical ends inside the socket.

Nothing worked, so when I had time, I finally checked the fuses and replaced #8 and 10. Now they work. Perhaps another fuse or relay is busted on your Jeep?

check Fuse 8 and Fuse 10 in the IPM.

Switched 8 and 10 still no luck for me. I have no idea what to do now besides stealership.

I’ve fixed one of these before by adjusting the tab on the tail light socket to restore the connection. Over time, it tends to bend and create an open circuit. You might also notice some burning on the plastic. This fix should help you avoid having to replace the circuit board at the back of the taillight assembly.

I’ll look for the burnt plastic.

I appreciate everyone’s responses, I get electrical in theory, but don’t know where to look.

I had a similar issue where my brake lights and turn signals worked, but I checked all the fuses and everything seemed fine. I decided to replace the light bulbs anyway. The original part was a 3157 bulb, but I used a 3057 bulb instead—they’re the yellow ones with the same connection. This fixed the problem, and my lights are working now. Also, remember to use gloves or a towel when changing bulbs, as the oil from your fingers can cause bulbs to burn out when they heat up. To summarize, the 3057 and 3157 bulbs are interchangeable with a W2.5x16q base. The main difference is that the 3157 draws more power and produces a brighter light, while the 3057 is more energy-efficient. I found this information and think it might be bypassing an electrical issue.