Case IH 1513 – Universal Control Module (UCM) or Instrument Cluster (IC): Right Brake Light Shorted To Power

The control system is detecting unexpected voltage (a short to a 12V power source) on the circuit responsible for illuminating the right brake light. When this code is active, the machine will typically illuminate a "white" master telltale warning lamp on the dash.

• skid steer
• Skid Steer Loaders (SSL)
• Compact Track Loaders (CTL)
• SR130
• SR150
• SV185
• TR270
• TV380

1. 1

   Check if the right brake light is stuck ON even when the brakes are not applied

2. 2

   Disconnect the right rear tail light assembly and measure voltage on the signal wire of the machine-side harness. If 12V is present without the brake pedal depressed, the short is in the wiring harness. If no voltage is present, the short may be internal to the light assembly

3. 3

   Trace the chassis wiring harness from the right tail light back to the UCM. Look for pinch points, chafed wire insulation, or melted wires crossing the brake light circuit with a constant 12V power wire

4. 4

   Inspect the brake light proximity switch/trigger near the brake pedal/linkage to ensure it is not stuck closed or internally shorted

1. 1

   Disconnect Power

   Turn off the machine and disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent electrical damage during repair.

2. 2

   Access the Circuit

   Remove the right rear tail light housing to access the pigtail connector.

3. 3

   Repair the Harness

   If the diagnostic checks revealed a short in the harness, locate the damaged section. Cut out the fused/chafed wires and splice in new wire using marine-grade, weather-sealed heat-shrink butt connectors. Wrap the repaired section in protective wire loom.

4. 4

   Replace the Light Assembly

   If the wiring harness is intact but the tail light assembly is internally shorted, unbolt the old assembly, plug the new OEM tail light into the harness, and secure it to the chassis.

5. 5

   Reassembly and Testing

   Reconnect the negative battery cable. Turn the key to the ON position. Clear the fault codes using an Electronic Service Tool (EST) or by cycling the ignition (if self-clearing). Depress the brake pedal to verify that the right brake light functions correctly and that Code 1513 does not return.