Head light issue

SURFSCHNAUZIE

MEMBER
1997 MAZDA PROTEGE
1.5L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

Initially, it started with a periodic power drain as manifested in fluctuations in idle.

Then the one headlight started dimming and went out and lastly kept burning fuses.

I think that I have a short going from the relay to the headlight.

I want to replace that set of wiring. Probably from the relay to the headlight.

I see some kits, but they are really for an LED conversion. I am not looking to do any upgrades, but just get my headlight working again.

Is there a diagram or a kit I can purchase?
Can you tell me what to do next?

Thank you.

1 Reply

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,411 POSTS

Here is a link on how to do some basic checks to the wiring:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-car-electrical-system-works
and checking for a battery draining down:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-dead-overnight

As for as replacing the wiring the only way to do that is by ordering the harness from the dealership. You may end up having to buy the whole engine harness but a parts specialist at your local dealership would need to look that up using your VIN number.

As for the fuses burning out, check which circuit it protects and unplug that component to see if the fuse still burns out. If it stops burning out then that component has shorted out internally and you will need to replace it. If it is still burning out with all the components it protects unplugged, then you have a shorted wire somewhere in the harness. For the dim headlight you should check headlight connector for corrosion and for corroded ground points in the harness. Lets us know what you find after reading the repair guides posted and unplugging the components the fuse protects.