2007 Outlook 29B Reverse Lights and Camera Not Activating

[Luke Croll]

Good day, I have an 07 Outlook 29B that rides on a Ford E450 chassis. I am not getting any power to my reverse lights nor my onboard reverse camera. What puzzles me here is that the onboard camera that sits above the center console, about eye level, can be turned on manually, however, it does not automatically turn on when in reverse. I am thinking that it could be the fuse, or even the reverse switch on the transmission.But I have found precious little regarding fuse locations and/or maps on the E450 or where the reverse switch is located on the transmission? I am praying for an easy fix, perhaps a fuse, since the trannie access is very tight under the E450. Has anyone else had this issue or know the fix?
Thanks, Luke

 

[Eagle5]

Hi Luke,
Google gives me this regarding the backup switch. It seems like a reasonable checklist.
Please let us know what you find.
Eagle5

• On a 2007 Ford E-450, the reverse switch is built into the Digital Transmission Range (TR) Sensor. This sensor is mounted directly on the driver's side of the transmission, right where the gear shift linkage connects to the transmission housing.
• The TR sensor does three jobs: it tells the engine computer what gear you selected, operates the starter safety switch (so the van only starts in Park or Neutral), and activates your reverse lights when you shift into reverse.

If your reverse lights aren't working, check these common areas first:

1. The Relay: Check the under-hood fuse box for a faulty reverse lamp relay.
2. The Wiring: Inspect the wiring harness connecting to the TR sensor for cracks or corrosion.
3. The Sensor: If the wiring and bulbs are good, the TR sensor likely needs to be replaced.

 

[Luke Croll]

Thanks Eagle5 for the reply! I sure am hoping for a bad relay here. The TR sensor seems to be functioning properly. The trannie knows what gear it's in and the rig will only start in park and neutral so that seems to all be working fine. I think I can see that lever and all the wires appear intact at the body of the sensor. I will try and find the relay location next. Thanks again.

 

[Eagle5]

Yes, replacing the relay is easy and relatively inexpensive. Not a bad thing to try.

 

[Morich]

Small point on those relays is a matter of luck on what you need but some are so common, you might spot the same type relay in the next one beside it? That can make swapping for testing a real winner!