Hi, I was hoping someone has an idea of what is going with my '98 4Runner SR5. There are various electrical problems that are afflicting every electrical device in the rear of the vehicle:

- Cargo bay light does not turn on when switched to "door" mode but will turn on when switched to "on" mode

- Rear defroster does not work, but the power light on the switch on the dashboard will remain on when the entire vehicle is off, indicating that the rear defroster is on.

- License plate lights remain on when entire vehicle is off (have at this point pulled the bulbs out to prevent draining the battery).

- Tailgate window does not open or close when switch is pressed.

- Rear windshield wiper and windshield spray does not work.

Does anyone know what is going on here, as this all seems to be concentrated to the rear electrical devices? Any help or suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!

 

Since everything you mentioned is in the tailgate you need to pull off the inner panel and start looking for corroded or broken wires. Start by looking for obvious signs of water leakage or corrosion. Then I would check the wiring from the body to the tailgate. If you don't have a multimeter you can pick one up for less than $20.