What can cause the rear brakes to not function?

If both the brake lights and rear turn signals are not functioning in your 2008 Dodge Charger, there are several possible causes to consider. Here are some common issues that could lead to this problem:
1. Blown fuses: Check the fuse box for any blown fuses related to the brake lights and turn signals. A blown fuse can interrupt the circuit and prevent the lights from working. Refer to your vehicle's manual to locate the specific fuse for these functions and replace it if necessary.
2. Faulty bulbs: Inspect the bulbs in the brake lights and turn signals to see if they are burnt out or damaged. If a bulb is not working, it should be replaced. It's possible that multiple bulbs have failed simultaneously, leading to both the brake lights and turn signals not functioning.
3. Wiring issues: Check the wiring connections and harnesses for any signs of damage, loose connections, or corrosion. Faulty wiring can disrupt the electrical flow and prevent the lights from operating. Repair or replace any damaged wiring as needed.
4. Malfunctioning brake light switch: The brake light switch, located near the brake pedal, activates the brake lights when the pedal is pressed. If the switch is faulty or misaligned, it can cause the brake lights to not work. Consider having the brake light switch inspected and replaced if necessary.
5. Faulty turn signal relay: The turn signal relay controls the flashing of the turn signals. If the relay is defective, it can prevent the rear turn signals from operating. Consider replacing the turn signal relay if other potential causes have been ruled out.
If troubleshooting these common issues does not resolve the problem, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or authorized Dodge service center for a more accurate diagnosis and repair. They will have the expertise and necessary tools to pinpoint and fix the specific issue with your 2008 Dodge Charger's brake lights and rear turn signals.

Sounds like an ABS problem. (Automatic Brake system) Dealer or very reliable repair shop.

Sounds like your master cylinder is not working properly, so you may have to replace it as there does not seem to be the correct amount of brake pressure that gets to the rear brakes. Are your rear calipers or brakes seized, to they move freely. Is the parking brake cable seized and causing the rear brakes to not function properly. Lots of thing it could be.

Check for loose contacts or wiring that is causing a short circuit near the brake pedal, or at the rear light.

This happens when the rear brakes are not working properly. Check function of the rear brakes. Next step after that involve replace of the proportioning valve.

Sound like the the emergency/parking brake adjuster is stuck.
The S60 as well as other P2 Volvos feature what's called "drum-in-hat" rear brakes that means that inside each of the rear disc brake rotors is a tiny drum brake. The rear discs function as the service brakes and the rear drums function as the emergency/ parking brakes.

That said, the parking brake adjuster works the same way as it does on most any other vehicle with a drum brake setup.

The parking bake adjuster works only when backing up. Sound like your may be getting stuck. The "hop" you feel may just be when the obstruction comes free/loose and fully release the emergency/parking brake

When it comes to poor parking brake operation, check for contaminated or excessively worn parking brake shoes.

I am surprise the dealer did not suggest this as a possible cause. Go back to dealer or find a reputable brake shop to check this out. Both rear wheels and rotors should be removed and the parking brakes inspected. This is a lot easier and cheaper fix than it will be if the problem is in the transmission (which it could be).

Please post a comment when you find out the true cause if this or something else so I can add this to my knowledge base. J

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Did you bleed all the air out of the system, sounds like your rear brakes are not releasing.

remove both tail lamps. clean all corrosion in the lamp contacts and circuits. corrosion is a big part in the circuitry in these models causing big headaches

you will have to remove rear brake rotors, one of two things, one is that the axle seals are leaking gear oil into e-brake shoes causing them not to hold or the shoes are worn out.

A flasher would not cause this problem, It's in the trun signal switch, it needs to be replaced