Brake light bulb socket replacement?

Tiny
GRLFRMOLY
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD CONTOUR
  • MANUAL
  • 200,000 MILES
I need to replace one brake light bulb socket and wiring harness on a 1998 Ford Contour, base model (I think). The car is old enough that the part I need has been discontinued and cannot be found in any wrecking yard I have access to. Is there a compatible updated part that I can splice in to replace both sides? I'm also hoping you can tell me why the engine will randomly rev up for a few seconds when applying the brakes?

Thank you for your time, and information. It is truly appreciated. :)
Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 AT 1:15 AM

9 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 51,615 POSTS
Yep, you can get the brake light socket pigtail from Amazon.

Here is a link and a video to show you howe to fix it:

https://amzn.to/4k6GYVm

And the video, double check to make sure the socket on amazon looks the same before you buy it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xvll_TTMjv0

Please go over these guides and get back to us.
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Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 AT 1:13 PM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,517 POSTS
If it's the right-angle socket that looks like the attached, part number F1TZ-13411-B if you search that number online there are multiples for sale. They were used on a lot of vehicles. If it has the straight version those were also used a lot and if you take the old one to a good parts store like NAPA or Federated they should be able to match them up.
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Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 AT 1:21 PM
Tiny
GRLFRMOLY
  • MEMBER
  • 16 POSTS
This is the part I need to replace, along with the wiring harness. It is a Duralast Brake Lamp Socket. Part # 1089. I've checked the auto parts stores in my area, I've checked online, I've checked E-Bay, and I've checked wrecking yards. It is nowhere to be found. It also annoys me that I'd have to pay $60.00+ for it if I did find one (because I'd probably need 2). So, I'm just wondering if there might be an updated version with a compatible socket that I can replace them with?
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Wednesday, May 14th, 2025 AT 11:43 PM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,517 POSTS
Duralast would be the house brand for AutoZone. The hard part with replacement is getting the bulb position correct so it makes the light the correct brightness. What has failed on the ones you have? Melted or broken ears?
What you might try is using www. Car-part. Com and see if any yards near you have the complete taillight assemblies with socket.
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Thursday, May 15th, 2025 AT 12:45 AM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,517 POSTS
Did you have any luck with a replacement?
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Sunday, May 25th, 2025 AT 3:19 PM
Tiny
GRLFRMOLY
  • MEMBER
  • 16 POSTS
I remembered another question I keep forgetting to ask. I have noticed a hose that runs from the lower right corner of the back of the engine to (I think)the bottom of the air filter, but it has never been connected. The hose is too short and not flexible enough to turn to lock it in, and there is nothing else to hold it in place. I'm feeling like it should be necessary but the car seemed to run just fine without it? And again, thank you for your time and information. I'm not a mechanic but I do learn from you which makes me feel safer. :)
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Sunday, May 25th, 2025 AT 11:27 PM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,517 POSTS
HMM, think you could get a picture of it and post it? The description sounds like a fresh air intake for the PCV system but it's been a while since I've looked at a Contour.
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Monday, May 26th, 2025 AT 11:14 AM
Tiny
GRLFRMOLY
  • MEMBER
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Ok, I hit reply but I can't tell if it went through. The pics are there but my text is gone so I'm gonna try again and hope you don't get this twice! I can't stand having to repeat myself, especially through type. :)
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Wednesday, May 28th, 2025 AT 12:24 PM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 14,517 POSTS
Yep, that is the PCV fresh air line. I would get some line and replace it. The reason being that it pulls in air to circulate in the engine. With it connected to the airbox that is filtered air. With it open it pulls in whatever is in the air, so dust, water and more get sucked into the engine.
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Thursday, May 29th, 2025 AT 9:15 AM

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