Headlight switch: replacement and selection

When and why it is necessary to replace headlight switch

Manufacturers do not set exact terms for this component replacement. There can be such defect of the device as abrasion of its elements, like its rod. Moreover, necessity of replacement occurs because of thermal damage of the component. Particularly, contacts melting is a quite common problem.

Abrasion of the headlight switch elements is a natural result of continuous exploitation of the device. While thermal damage appear as a result of overheating. This is possible, for instance, due to usage of high-power bulbs.

The signs of defectiveness can be jamming of the headlight switch rod, blinking of the fog lights at turning on of the marker lights, lights randomly turn off, for example, during driving on a rough road. Moreover, sometimes the lights do not work in some certain mode.

Actions sequence during components replacement depends on car construction. In most cases, you need to remove the dashboard frame and the casing under the steering wheel column before demounting the headlight switch. Bulbs also can be replaced by necessity.

How to select headlight switch

These components differ from one another by functionality. Thus, there are devices, responsible for headlights operation only. However, the switches, controlling the fog lights are also available. The switches, serving only one function are cheaper than others. However, the last one are more comfortable in usage. In addition, the devices differ from one another by shape. Thus, parts made in the form of a button, wheel and lever are available in the market.

In order to make a new component serve faultlessly during a long time period you need to purchase the item from a proven firm. For instance, high-quality headlight switches are presented in the assortment of Febi Bilstein, VEMO, Metzger brands.

Selecting the component you should be guided by your car technical characteristics. The brand, model and production year are important, as well as a configuration version, body type and steering wheel mounting location. Properly selected device will have appropriate quantity of contacts for connection.