No low beam/no headlights

MIKE969

MEMBER
1997 DODGE RAM
5.9L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
175,000 MILES

One evening I didn't have any low beams. It's a work truck and doesn't get driven much after dark. Well another dark trip now no low beams or high beams but, if I pull back on the dimmer switch I have lights. Now that also has left me in the dark. I heard that Dodge had problems with their headlight switches and upon inspection the switch had a meltdown. My question is, it possible that my pulling back on the dimmer may have caused the meltdown and is it possible that the dimmer is damaged as well. Thanks for any input?
is it hard to replace the signal/dimmer switch?
mike969

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi,

Chances are holding the multi function switch had nothing to do with the problem. I would simply replace the switch. Here are the directions for replacement. The attached pictures correlate with the directions.
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1997 Dodge or Ram Truck RAM 1500 Truck 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z
Procedures
Vehicle Sensors and Switches Sensors and Switches - Lighting and Horns Headlamp Switch Service and Repair Procedures
PROCEDURES
REMOVAL

WARNING: IF THE HEADLAMP SWITCH WAS TURNED ON, WAIT FIVE MINUTES TO ALLOW THE CERAMIC DIMMER RESISTOR TO COOL. IF THE RESISTOR IS NOT ALLOWED TO COOL, IT CAN BURN YOUR FINGERS.

1. Remove the cluster bezel.

Headlamp Switch And Bezel Remove/Install

Pic 1

2. Remove the three screws that secure the headlamp switch bezel to the instrument panel.

Headlamp Switch Knob And Shaft Remove/Install

pic 2

3. Pull the headlamp switch and bezel out from the instrument panel far enough to unplug the wire harness connectors.
4. Pull the headlamp switch control knob out to its On position stop.
5. Depress the headlamp switch knob and shaft release button on the bottom of the switch, and pull the switch knob and shaft out of the switch.
6. Remove the two screws that secure the headlamp switch bezel to the switch mounting bracket.
7. Reverse the removal procedures to install.

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Also, there is a chance the fuse blew for the lights. It is in the power distribution box under the hood. I attached a pic for you to identify fuse number. (pic 3)
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Here are a couple links you may find helpful or may not need based on prior knowledge. I'm just adding them in case they are needed.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-car-fuse-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

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

Take care,
Joe

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