1988 Dodge Dakota Headlamp/General Electrical Issue

SHARINGANEYE

MEMBER
1988 DODGE DAKOTA

Electrical problem
1988 Dodge Dakota 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

I'm gonna make this as short and sweet as possible. Headlights, Dash Lights, Power Locks, and Horn do not work. Sometimes, when I attempt to try the horn, the relay buzzes. I replaced the relay, checked all fuses, I still got the same results. Battery is fully powered, truck starts and runs like a charm. All other electrical devices in the truck operate fine(radio, cig lighter, etc.). I have beginner to moderate engine knowledge but beginner level electrical/wiring knowledge at best. Any help is greatly appreciated.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,700 POSTS

Okay, I think you have more than one problem. First, the headlights and dash lights work from the switch. Have you checked the switch for power? Next, I need you to have a helper blow the horn while you check for power to the horn itself. It isn't uncommon for the horn itself to be bad. There is one wire to it. Unplug it and place the + side of a volt meter on the wire and ground the other end. You should get 12+ volts when the horn is blown. If you do, replace the horn. It is like a 10 dollar part at any parts store. Now, the power locks are a different issue. You need to check to see if you are getting power to the switch. If you are, check if there is power to the lock solenoids that lock and unlock the doors.

It sounds like a lot of work, but take your time and you should be able to do it all in an hour or so.

LEt me know what you find.

Joe