Just got my 1992 Firebird with T5 back from the repair shop. Changed air to 134r and replaced a couple of O rings at compressor. Shop used a dye to track down the leaks. The shop had used the emergency brake which I never do.

This evening, I tried to open the hatch with the dash hatch switch. Nothing. Then, I started the engine. Every time I pressed the hatch switch, the dash brake light came on and stayed on until I released the switch. I pulled the emergency brake open and closed a couple of times. Now the brake light does not come on when I press the hatch switch.

After dark, I realized the ceiling interior light also does not work. However, the hatch defroster switch and radio work. The dash lights come on when I turn on the lights.

I plan to ask the air repair guy if he could have done anything under the hood to cause this problem. His shop does general repair work and he is very knowledgeable. He restored his 1969 Camaro. However, I doubt he did anything under the hood to cause problems.

Got any ideas what steps to take in solving the problem? Has anyone had a similar problem?

Thanks for any suggestions.

 

It sounds as if the circuit is missing a ground. On a convertible with 5 speed the hatch release relay is grounded thru the parking brake. I'd remove the center console and see if that ground wire is still in place. As I recall it is a tan with white stripe wire. Do you have a 1992 Firebird Service Manual? It is red in color, 3" thick and weighs roughly 7 lbs. I'd suggest getting one. It has the circuit diagrams and troubleshooting info you'll need. It is available new at www.helminc.com or used on eBay.

Good luck,

Lon

 

These three diagrams should give you a good idea what's going on:
brake warning system
hatch release
ACC fus

If they (the mechanics) blew your ACC fuse, the hatch release switch is backfeeding ground from the grounded accessories, through the release relay and to the brake warning system (splice S228) and into the warning lamp that lights up.

I would check the ACC fuse first.

Also, as Lon suggested, I would check the ground in the center console. If it is loose, it will work intermittently and you won't have a brake warning light with the parking brake set and you won't be able to open your hatch.

If you need more diagrams, you can find them here.

Hope this helps.
Lou

 

Lon & Lou,

Thanks a bunch.

I didn't know that the e-brake was a ground. I learn something new every time I visit this forum. I also discovered that my electric mirrors and cigarette lighter are not working. I'll start with checking the fuse and go from there.

I found a post on how to remove the console. So, if it's not the fuse, I know how to get into to the console. Thanks also for the web links.

Steve

 

Inop mirrors, door locks and cigarette lighter are a dead giveaway to a blown ACC fuse.
Replace it with a 20A blade fuse and you should be good.

Lou

 

Thanks!!!