Headlights turn off while driving

Tiny
JILL KINDLE
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 DODGE DAKOTA
  • 5.2L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 164,000 MILES
Headlights go off while driving. Now when this happens the flashers will not even work. You can hear flashers but no lights.
Friday, May 18th, 2018 AT 10:09 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
Hi Jill and thanks for using 2CarPros. Com. One of the common problems which result in the problem you described is the switch itself. I have found that they overheat and shut down. After it cools, they come back on. If you notice a smell like hot plastic, it should be replaced. I have attached the directions specific to your vehicle related to removal and replacement of the switch: See the attached picture for component location.

Warning:

On vehicles equipped with airbags, refer to air bags and seat belts/air bags before attempting any steering wheel, steering column, or instrument panel component diagnosis or service. Failure to take the proper precautions could result in accidental airbag deployment and possible personal injury.
If the headlamp switch was on, wait five minutes to allow the ceramic dimmer resistor to cool. If the ceramic dimmer resistor is not allowed to cool, it can burn your fingers.

Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Remove the cluster bezel from the instrument panel. See Instrument Panel, Gauges and Warning Indicators/Instrument Panel/Cluster Bezel in the Replacement for the procedures.
Headlamp Switch And Bezel Remove/Install

Remove the three screws that secure the headlamp switch bezel to the instrument panel.
Pull the headlamp switch and bezel out from the instrument panel far enough to access the wire harness connectors.
Unplug the two wire harness connectors from the headlamp switch.
Pull the headlamp switch control knob out to the On position stop.
Depress the headlamp switch knob and shaft release button on the top of the switch.
While holding the release button depressed, pull the knob and shaft out of the headlamp switch.
Remove the push nut retainer that secures the headlamp switch bezel to the switch mounting bracket.
Remove the headlamp switch bezel from the switch mounting bracket.
Remove the spanner nut that secures the headlamp switch mounting bracket to the switch.
Remove the headlamp switch mounting bracket from the switch.
Reverse the removal procedures to install. Tighten the headlamp switch and bezel mounting screws to 2.2 N.M (20 in. Lbs.).

I hope this is helpful and takes care of your problem. Let me know if you have other questions or need help.

Take care,
Joe
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Saturday, May 19th, 2018 AT 9:02 PM

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