While driving the headlight randomly cut off

Tiny
PINEKNOTTT409
  • MEMBER
  • 1989 FORD LTD
  • 6 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 30,000 MILES
And I hear a buzzing sound when they cut off. Sounds like the buzz is coming from around the steering column.
Wednesday, February 5th, 2020 AT 4:42 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,700 POSTS
Hi,

Could the noise be coming from the headlamp switch? I have seen them overheat and cause what you are describing.

If you determine it is from the switch, here are directions for replacement.

__________________

1989 Ford LTD V8-302 5.0L
Procedures
Vehicle Sensors and Switches Sensors and Switches - Lighting and Horns Headlamp Switch Service and Repair Procedures
PROCEDURES
Headlamp Switch

See Pic 1

1. On models equipped with airbag disable airbag system as described under MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES/AIRBAG SYSTEM DISARMING.
2. Under instrument panel, depress light switch knob and shaft retainer button on side of switch and, while holding button in, pull knob and shaft assembly from switch, Fig. 2.
3. Unscrew trim bezel and remove locknut.
4. From under instrument panel, pull switch from panel while tilting downward, disconnect electrical connector and remove switch.
5. Reverse procedure to install.

____________________________

If it is from the steering column, the there is a chance it is the multi function switch. The only way to be sure in this case is to remove and inspect it. If you hear a buzzing, something is shorting, so there should be evidence.

Here are the directions for removal and replacement of the multi function switch.

1989 Ford LTD V8-302 5.0L
Multifunction Switch
Vehicle Sensors and Switches Sensors and Switches - Lighting and Horns Headlamp Dimmer Switch Service and Repair Procedures Multifunction Switch
MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH
1. On models equipped with airbag, disable airbag system as described under MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES/AIRBAG SYSTEM DISARMING.
2. Tilt column to lowest position and remove tilt lever, if equipped.
3. Remove ignition lock cylinder.
4. Remove shroud screws, then remove upper and lower shrouds.
5. Remove two screws attaching multi-function switch to steering column casting. Disengage switch from casting.
6. Disconnect two electrical connectors.
7. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. Torque retaining screws to 18-26 inch lbs.
B. Activate airbag system as described under MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES/AIRBAG SYSTEM DISARMING.

__________________________

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Wednesday, February 5th, 2020 AT 8:34 PM

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