Expert: Sean Halliday - 2/6/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have a 99 Mitsubishi galant es and was hit on the front passenger side. After the accident my interior dash lights don't work and most importantly my back tail light doesn't work, I tried using new bulbs on my tail light but nothing. Are the wires connected from the front head light and the back tail lights connected some way

ANSWER: The lights are connected by left and right circuits.Its possibly the fuse for this side or wiring was damaged in the crash.With no dash lights also,it sounds like a fuse.If the damage has not been repaired, then the wirng must be looked at to see if it is shorting out against the body.

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QUESTION: can I go to an auto body shop to get this repaired or does it have to be to the dealer? I'm trying not to go to the dealer because they over price. Also where could I purchase a right circuits replacement if needed to?

ANSWER: Most any body shop can fix this as they are working on the body damage.Its most likely the wires are crushed between the bodywork.Simple replacement of the damaged wires will fix it.This will have caused a fuse or fuses to be blown so do not replace them until the wires are fixed as it is a fire hazard with wires touching the metal body.

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QUESTION: thanks, where would you suggest someone to go to get a replacement of wires, and what would you actually ask for, becaus I believe I can do this myself I just need to know what it is that I'm looking and asking for and where to go get it.

Answer
Best place is a junk yard.Take the old wiring with you to compare what you need.Cut it off a good way from the damage and simply reconnect with  connectors and not tape joints as these will not be any good.If the tape gets wet,it will short out.There are new type screw connectors which are in most parts stores or crimp type,use these.