2001 Chevy Cavalier headlights

2001 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

90,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC

CAZZIE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

headlights are suppose to be on bright but they are really on dim
when you pull dimmer switch lights go off and when you pull dimmer switch again light come on
tried another dimmer switch same problem

has anyone have any ideas

Apr 6, 2009 at 8:41 PM

JDL

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
16,098 POSTS

Hello, the headlite switch is part of the ground circuit for the lites. Right headlamp, pink wire is ground for high beam. Right and left high beam use the same ground. If there is an open circuit, it won't work. You could use a redundant ground at various places, see if the high beams work?

Apr 7, 2009 at 1:56 PM

CAZZIE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

i tried grounding pink wire and lights came on when they were suppose to be on but wasn't
I would try and rig it but so far with the pink wire grounded lights stay on all time
Thanks

Apr 7, 2009 at 8:52 PM

JDL

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
16,098 POSTS

Hi, you ground the wire just for testing, yes, if you leave it grounded, the lites will stay on.

Find the pink wire under the dash as close as possible to the steering column, ground it there. If the lites still work, the problem is the wiring circuit in the steering column or headlight switch/dimmer.

Apr 8, 2009 at 8:44 AM

CAZZIE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thanks I give it a try, sounds like a sensible thing to do. I'll get back with you later on to give you my findings

Apr 8, 2009 at 7:28 PM

Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.