06 Spectra no brake lights

[norcica]

My '06 Spectra failed state inspection today because my brake lights don't work...doesn't seem to be burned out bulbs, but there were none on hand to test with at the shop.

I believe I may have a short, as a I recall experiencing brief weirdness with the brake lights a couple of times during the last two years (the lights would go on and off for a minute or two after I turned the ignition off and locked her up). Also, I'm guessing that the problem may be intermittent...

At the times she flashed the lights she was still under warranty but I just brushed the issue off since the problem didn't last long and only occurred twice...I didn't think anything could be done with the problem not readily exhibiting itself.

Anyway, I guess I'm SOL with the $$ now but I could use some advice as to what this could be, to help the mech narrow in.

Thanks!

Norbert