Brake lights flashing headlamps

[Andy wood]

Hi Guys,
does any one know why may headleghts flash when I apply the brakes, all other lights on my S work well.

Cheers

Andy

[Phil C]

It's probably the rear light clusters (good old Ford Escort items) corroded causing a short back though which causes the headlights to flash.....when you brake....
I had this problem a couple of years ago. New bulb holders from your nearest Ford dealer cost about £6 ea - even less from the nearest scrappy..... should cure it..... Good luck -

BTW: check the condition of the bulbs as well - I fixed the above to find a knackered bulb itself causing a problem....

[sotonS2]

As certain as certain can be its the rear bulb holders, as stated. More specifically, I suspect one of the bulbs has twisted within its holder, the bottom of the bulb has shorted between brake light and tail light contact and 12v is being sent to the headlights via the tail lamp circuit when the brake pedal is pressed.

Chances are the plastic guides that take the lugs on the side walls of the bulbs have sheared. Note that the bulbs have staggered lugs and are only supposed to be inserted one way.