1. Check the Fuses:
* Locate the fuse box: Your 2000 Ford Contour likely has multiple fuse boxes. One is usually under the hood and another is often located inside the car, possibly under the dashboard on the driver's side. Consult your owner's manual for the exact locations and a fuse diagram.
* Identify relevant fuses: Look for fuses labeled "tail lights," "parking lights," "interior lights," or similar. There might be separate fuses for different circuits within the lighting system.
* Inspect the fuses: Carefully examine each fuse for a blown element (a broken wire inside the fuse). A blown fuse will appear dark or broken. Replace any blown fuses with fuses of the *same amperage rating*. Never use a higher amperage fuse.
2. Check the Bulbs:
* Tail lights: While unlikely if *all* tail lights are out, check the bulbs themselves to rule out a simple burned-out bulb.
* Interior lights: Check all interior lights (dome, map, etc.) A burned-out bulb might not be the sole problem, but it's worth checking.
3. Investigate the Wiring:
* Fuse box connections: While checking the fuses, also look for any corrosion or loose connections in the fuse box itself.
* Wiring harness: This is more advanced and requires some electrical knowledge. A damaged wire in the harness leading to the lights could be the culprit. You'd need to trace the wiring harness from the fuse box to the lights, looking for breaks, frayed wires, or loose connections. This often requires removing panels.
* Ground connections: Poor ground connections can cause strange electrical issues. Check for ground wires near the tail light assemblies and other relevant locations. Clean any corrosion from the ground connection points.
4. Consider the Switch:
* Interior light switch: If only the interior lights are out, the interior light switch itself could be faulty.
5. Consult a Professional:
If you've checked fuses, bulbs, and obvious wiring issues, and the problem persists, it's time to seek professional help from an auto electrician or mechanic. The issue could be:
* Faulty switch: A more complicated switch controlling the lights might have failed.
* Wiring harness problem: A more significant damage to the wiring harness might require repair or replacement of sections.
* Body control module (BCM) issue: In some cases, a malfunctioning BCM can affect lighting circuits. This is a more complex and expensive repair.
* Short circuit: A short circuit somewhere in the electrical system could have blown a fuse and might be causing further damage.
Safety Note: Always disconnect the battery's negative terminal before working on any car's electrical system to avoid short circuits and shocks.
Remember to consult your 2000 Ford Contour's owner's manual for specific fuse box diagrams and locations. This manual will be invaluable in troubleshooting this issue.
