72 Cutlass S. Brake and tail lights (1157 bulbs) work intermittently because the bulb is very loose in the socket. What is the fix? Thanks

 

Replace the wiring pigtail and spring. Solder the new wires to the old harness. You can buy these at a good auto parts store.

 

If the spring loaded contacts are corroded it won't allow them to tighten up on the bulb. Also sometimes the wire is bent at the plug not allowing the spring to work. Clean them thoroughly with contact cleaner if the spring is still functional, and lube with some dielectric grease.

 

Ok my far right tail light bulb burned out, i went to replace it with the newer style 1157 and it will not work unless i hold it in tight. Does anybody have a fix for this? I remember the old style had lead contacts. Does any one sell these or does any one have them for sale.

 

My guess is the contact is not freely moving in the socket and stuck. Read my post above and give it a try. If that fails go with what m671961 suggests.