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Replacing headlamp switch

Tiny
GRAJENN
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 BUICK SKYLARK
The headlamp switch on my Skylark quit working yesterday. Fortunately this happened when I turned the headlights off, but now I need to replace it. Is this a fairly simple job? If so, can you tell me how to make this repair? I have looked in the Chilton manual but it shows the switch on the steering column. The switch in my car is on the left side of the instrument panel.
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Monday, April 12th, 2010 AT 10:15 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
The 1998 skylarks used a multi function switch which operated the headlights, turn signals, cruise control and hazard lights all in one, on the steering column. Here are diagrams below that will help show you how to do the job. You while need to remove the steering wheel.

Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers
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Thursday, April 22nd, 2010 AT 7:26 PM
Tiny
DOOFUS
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
  • 1995 BUICK SKYLARK
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
The headlights on my daughters car quit working. It's not the bulbs and the fuse is fine. The brake lights, turn signal and flashers still work.

She took it to Midas and they said it is the multi-function switch (a $200 part they claimed). I ordered the part on Rock Auto for $65 but I'm not sure its the right one.

What I ordered is about the size and shape of a wallet with six wires coming out of it and 6 clips of some sort.

Were the Midas guys talking about the switch on the turn signal arm that runs the lights, brights, etc?

Also, if I ordered the right part can you tell me where it goes?

Thank you,

Kelly.
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Thursday, November 29th, 2018 AT 7:39 PM (Merged)
Tiny
MUSTANG87
  • MECHANIC
  • 261 POSTS
I have a feeling you baught the wrong part. Normally the part that breaks down is called the dimmer switch combination switch ignition dimmer switch. Yes its the one on your steering weel where you turn on the lights and cruise control if ur car has cruise. Go here and look at the prices www. Kragen. Com they run about 115 bucks and up unless you get a used one at a junk yard and have someone install it for u. Good luck
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Thursday, November 29th, 2018 AT 7:39 PM (Merged)
Tiny
DOOFUS
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
You were correct. I ordered the combo swith before she came out and replaced it and she now has headlights (so at least Midas diagnosed it correctly).

I ordered the part from RockAuto for $71 (no cruise control model) plus $9 shipping.

Thanks for your help!
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Thursday, November 29th, 2018 AT 7:39 PM (Merged)
Tiny
MUSTANG87
  • MECHANIC
  • 261 POSTS
Your welcome. Glad you got the lights goin again. You got the part at a great price thats for sure. Take care
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Thursday, November 29th, 2018 AT 7:39 PM (Merged)
Tiny
SEAN W
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
  • 1995 BUICK SKYLARK
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 108,000 MILES
All the lights work on the car but every now and then the front headlights stop working. Once I was able to tap around and close the hood and the came on again. We can pull the light switch and the high beams will come on.I think it might be a short or something. Is there a way I can test this?
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Thursday, November 29th, 2018 AT 7:39 PM (Merged)
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi:
First, since closing the hood made them work, make sure the plugs are clean and tight. If there is no problem there, replace the switch. It sounds bad too.

Joe
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Thursday, November 29th, 2018 AT 7:39 PM (Merged)

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