Toyota Repair: Toyota backup lights, neutral safety switch, backup light

Question
The backup lights on my 95 Camry 4 cyl. auto are not working. I think it is a loose connection at the shifting console. How do I check this out before getting overcharged by mechanics. I'm new to this area. Any ideas?

Answer
It depends on whether it's an automatic or manual transmission, have both bulbs been checked to be sure they are good?
If so, there may be a wiring problem, it's possible that there are some broken or stretched wires in the wire harness on the left trunk hinge, the insulation has to be removed to check for any broken wires in the harness, if this is an automatic transmission the backup light switch is part of the neutral safety switch on the transmission, if it is a manual transmission there is a backup light switch on the transmission, these seldom cause problems so I suspect that there is a wiring problem or the bulbs are both burned out or there is a ground circuit open.