Reverse Light Wire Color on a 1996 Chevrolet K1500 Pickup to Allow Connection of Back Up Light

Updated 11/16/2012 | Published 11/14/2012

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Question:

What color is the reverse wire on my 1996 chevy silverado k1500 pickup i am trying to to hookup a reverse light on my trailer

asked by: Jake

Expert Reply:

The best way to confirm which wire activates your vehicle reverse lights is to remove one taillight assembly and visually identify which lead goes to the reverse light bulb.

To remove the taillight, open the tailgate and locate and remove the two taillight retaining screws. This will allow you to pull out the taillight assembly for access to the wiring.

Then, for safety sake, it will be useful to have a helper turn the ignition to the on position without starting the vehicle. Then place the vehicle into reverse gear, with the brakes depressed and the emergency brake engaged, while you confirm which wire carries the voltage to the reverse lamp bulb.

Another option is to use a circuit tester such as # PTW2993 to confirm which wire carries the reverse light voltage.

Once you know the correct wire you can connect a back-up light such as # BU70CB or a high-efficiency LED type like # BUL10CB which is fully-submersible.