To find the reverse wire, you need to:
1. Consult a wiring diagram: This is the most reliable method. A wiring diagram specific to your 1996 Chevy Tahoe's year, make, model, and options will show you the wire color and its location. You can often find these diagrams online (through forums dedicated to Chevy Tahoes or repair manuals) or at a parts store.
2. Use a multimeter: With the ignition off, probe the wires in the relevant harness (likely near the transmission or the back of the radio/stereo) with a multimeter set to DC voltage. Put one multimeter lead on a good ground point. Shift the transmission into reverse. The wire that shows 12 volts when in reverse is your reverse wire. Be extremely careful when working with car wiring and electricity.
Common locations to look:
* Transmission: The reverse light wire is usually found in the wiring harness connected to the transmission.
* Tail light harness: The wire may run to the tail lights.
* Wiring harness near the instrument cluster: Less likely, but possible.
Without a wiring diagram, identifying the correct wire by color alone is risky. Using a multimeter to test for voltage is the safest and most reliable method to locate the reverse wire. Remember to disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any electrical work.
