1995-1998 Ford Windstar High Mount Stop Lamp: Water Leaks & Bulb Guide
This guide covers the common failures, water leak problems, and replacement procedure for the third brake light on the first-generation Ford Windstar.
- This part only fits 1995-1998 Windstars with a single passenger-side sliding door (3-door configuration).
- The most common cause of failure is a burnt-out 921-type bulb, which is an easy and inexpensive fix.
- Water leaking into the cabin from a failed gasket is a very common problem; inspect any used part's gasket and consider making a new one from weatherstripping tape.
- A non-functional third brake light is a safety violation and can result in a ticket.
Compatibility Warning: The 3-Door Windstar Rule
Important: This high mounted stop lamp assembly is for the first-generation Ford Windstar, produced from 1995 to 1998. These models were only available with a single passenger-side sliding door, often referred to as a 3-door configuration (driver door, passenger door, and one sliding door). Ford did not introduce a driver-side sliding door until the second-generation model in 1999. Before purchasing, confirm your Windstar has only one sliding door to ensure correct fitment.
Symptoms of Failure
Failure of the high mount stop lamp can present in several ways. Diagnosing the specific symptom can help you quickly identify the root cause.
- Light Does Not Work at All: This is the most common symptom. When you press the brake pedal, the two main brake lights work, but the center high-mounted one does not. This is most often caused by a burnt-out bulb.
- Dim or Flickering Light: If the light is weak, flickers, or works intermittently, it can point to a failing bulb, a loose electrical connection at the socket, or corrosion in the connector.
- Condensation Inside the Lens: Moisture or fogging inside the lamp housing is a clear sign that the foam gasket has failed. This allows water to seep into the assembly.
- Water Stains on Interior Headliner: If you notice water stains on the headliner inside the van, directly below where the light is mounted, the lamp's gasket is almost certainly leaking. This is a common issue on many Ford vehicles of this era.
Diagnosing the Problem: A Step-by-Step Guide
If your third brake light isn't working, follow these steps in order. Most of the time, the fix is simple and cheap.
- Check the Bulb: The vast majority of failures are due to a simple burnt-out bulb. The bulb type is a 921 (sometimes listed as a 912). This should always be your first check.
- Check the Fuse: If a new bulb doesn't solve the problem, check the fuse box. A single blown fuse can take out the brake light circuit. If the fuse blows repeatedly, it indicates a short circuit in the wiring that needs further investigation.
- Inspect the Bulb Socket and Connector: Look for any signs of corrosion (green or white powder), melted plastic, or loose-fitting wires at the bulb socket and the main harness connector.
- Test the Brake Light Switch: The brake light switch is located on the arm of the brake pedal. If this switch fails, it won't send a signal to any of the brake lights. If your main brake lights work but the third one doesn't, the switch is likely not the problem.
Pro Tip: Water intrusion from a bad gasket is a known issue that can cause corrosion and electrical problems. Even if the bulb is just burnt out, it's wise to inspect the gasket for damage and consider replacing it to prevent future leaks.
Buying a Used High Mtd Stop Lamp for Your Windstar
Since new OEM assemblies are likely discontinued and direct-fit aftermarket replacements are not readily available, a used OEM part is often the only option for replacing a cracked or damaged housing.
What to Inspect on a Used Part:
- Lens Condition: Check carefully for any cracks, even hairline fractures. Also look for heavy cloudiness or sun-fading (crazing) that can make the light dim and brittle.
- Housing Integrity: Flip the lamp over and inspect the plastic housing. Pay close attention to the two screw mounting points. Ensure they are not cracked or broken, as this will prevent the lamp from seating securely.
- Gasket Seal: The foam gasket around the perimeter is the most critical part to inspect. A good used gasket should still be pliable and have some thickness. If it is flat, brittle, or crumbling, it will leak and must be replaced. You can create a new gasket using high-quality waterproof foam weatherstripping tape.
- Electrical Connector: Look inside the connector pins. They should be clean and free of any green or white corrosion.
Replacement Guide (Difficulty: 1/5)
Replacing the high mount stop lamp on a 1995-1998 Windstar is a very easy job that requires only a Phillips head screwdriver. The entire process should take less than 15 minutes.
- Open the Rear Liftgate: You do not need to remove any interior trim panels. The lamp is accessed from the outside.
- Remove the Two Screws: Locate the two Phillips head screws on the face of the red lens. Remove them.
- Pull the Lamp Assembly Out: Gently pull the lamp housing straight back, away from the liftgate.
- Disconnect the Wiring: Twist the bulb socket to remove it from the housing, or unplug the main electrical connector if you are replacing the entire assembly.
- Install the New Lamp: Connect the wiring to the new/replacement lamp. If you are just changing the bulb, insert the new bulb and twist the socket back into the housing. Seat the lamp assembly back into the opening in the liftgate, ensuring the gasket is properly aligned.
- Secure the Screws: Re-install the two Phillips head screws. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the plastic lens or housing.
- Test the Light: Have a helper press the brake pedal to confirm the new light works before finishing the job.
Cost of Replacement
The cost can vary significantly depending on whether you need a whole new assembly or just a bulb.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM Assembly | Likely Discontinued |
| New Aftermarket Assembly | Not Widely Available |
| Used OEM Assembly | $25 - $75 |
| Replacement Bulb (921/912) | $3 - $12 |
| Shop Labor (Installation) | $40 - $80 |
OEM Part Numbers & Bulb Specifications
- OEM Part Number: F78Z-13A613-AA (F78Z13A613AA)
- Bulb Type: 921 / 912
Recalls & Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
While the 1997 Ford Windstar was subject to several safety recalls for issues like transmission fluid leaks and rear axle corrosion, there are no specific NHTSA recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the failure of the high mounted stop lamp itself. Problems with this part are typically due to normal aging and wear, not a manufacturing defect.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it illegal to drive without a working third brake light?
Yes. All passenger cars manufactured for sale in the US since 1986 are required to have a functional Center High Mounted Stop Lamp. Driving with one that is burnt out can result in a traffic ticket and is a safety risk.
My main brake lights work, but the high-mounted one doesn't. What's the problem?
This almost always means the bulb in the high-mounted lamp is burnt out. The main brake lights and the third brake light use separate bulbs, so it's very common for one to fail while the others still work.
Can I just replace the bulb, or do I need the whole assembly?
If the light is simply out, you almost certainly only need to replace the bulb (type 921). You only need to replace the entire assembly if the lens is cracked, the housing is broken, or it is causing a persistent water leak that a new gasket cannot fix.
How can I fix a leaking third brake light?
The leak is caused by a degraded foam gasket. The best fix is to remove the light assembly, clean the area, and apply a new, thicker gasket made from waterproof closed-cell foam weatherstripping tape. Some people also apply a thin bead of clear silicone around the perimeter of the light for extra protection, but this can make future bulb changes more difficult.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F78Z-13A613-AA F78Z13A613AA
Bulb Type: 921 or 912
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Windstar:
- Compatibility Warning: The 3-Door Windstar Rule
- Symptoms of Failure
- Diagnosing the Problem: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Buying a Used High Mtd Stop Lamp for Your Windstar
- What to Inspect on a Used Part:
- Replacement Guide (Difficulty: 1/5)
- Cost of Replacement
- OEM Part Numbers & Bulb Specifications
- Recalls & Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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