Intermittent Passenger Headlight Operation

[EdWeg]

2007 XLT passenger headlight cuts on/off intermittently. Replaced bulb (thought it had burned out) and continues to do. Sometimes clicking on the fogs will activate, or flipping between all switch settings will; but, always seems to go back to intermittent on/off operation. Connections and wires seem to be intact without frays, etc. Any ideas on what could be causing it?

 

[ExpeditionAndy]

I had a similar problem on my 05. I narrowed it down to the switch. It would do the same thing every once in a while. If I turned the switch to any position but auto (I always kept it on auto) and back to auto it would come on. If it bothers you try to get a switch from a junk yard it will be cheap, otherwise, $24.79 for the Motorcraft switch on Rock Auto

http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=1004214&cc=1433530&jsn=456
http://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...lectrical-switch+&+relay,headlamp+switch,4472

 

[EdWeg]

Thanks. Lately, it won't come on no matter which way I turn or pull the switch...I hope it ends up being that; better than having to trace a wiring issue. Like your ride!

 

[ExpeditionAndy]

Thanks Ed,

The other thing you can try is to remove the connector and re-seat it to see that helps, but the switch is cheap.

 

[EdWeg]

You do mean the connector on the switch, right?!

 

[ExpeditionAndy]

Sorry, yes, the connector at the back of the switch.

 

[Adieu]

2007 XLT passenger headlight cuts on/off intermittently. Replaced bulb (thought it had burned out) and continues to do. Sometimes clicking on the fogs will activate, or flipping between all switch settings will; but, always seems to go back to intermittent on/off operation. Connections and wires seem to be intact without frays, etc. Any ideas on what could be causing it?

HID?

Try adding a relay harness AND capacitors

 

[EdWeg]

Yes, I replaced originals with a pair of 100W HID 5000k brightness. You don't think it could be the switch or connector?

 

[EdWeg]

I've reseated the switch to no avail; so, replaced the switch with a new one, and there's been no change in the operation of the passenger low beam light - it still won't come on - at all. No amount of fogs on/off, or switch setting activates the passenger low beam now. Any ideas on what could have suddenly caused this issue/problem; and, how to fix it? Or, do I need a mechanic with tools?

 

[ExpeditionAndy]

I've reseated the switch to no avail; so, replaced the switch with a new one, and there's been no change in the operation of the passenger low beam light - it still won't come on - at all. No amount of fogs on/off, or switch setting activates the passenger low beam now. Any ideas on what could have suddenly caused this issue/problem; and, how to fix it? Or, do I need a mechanic with tools?

If I'm not mistaken, a 100 W HID draws more current than a standard 55W halogen. It is possible that you have a burnt connection where the factory wiring plugs into the ballast. This going to be one of those tedious troubleshooting problems because you are going to have to trace the wires back until you find the problem.

I'd start by swapping components left to right to see if they work on one side and not the other. This will eliminate the components. First swap the bulbs from the side that works to the side that doesn't. Then put the bulbs back where they originally were, then swap the igniters (if used) from the side that works to the side that doesn't and see if that makes a difference, then switch them back. Finally swap the ballasts from the side that works to the side that doesn't work and see what happens.

Once you have cleared the components then start with your multi meter checking for voltage. and looking over the connectors and the wiring for burned spots.

Just my 2 cents worth. I hope it helps.

 

[Adieu]

Yes, I replaced originals with a pair of 100W HID 5000k brightness. You don't think it could be the switch or connector?

Relay harness and warning cancellers or no?

Ballasts can be intermittent without them, and for some reason tend to become moreso with age


Also, you sure about that 100w thing???? Typical wattages are 35w and 55w


100w would probably cook your headlights and is likely a fire hazard

 

[EdWeg]

They were touted and sold as being compatible replacements, and were 100/80W versus the stock 60/55W. Both were H13/9008 12V too. The advantage was a brighter blueish lighting. When the stock low beam quit, is when the problem started which I thought was a burned out bulb. May have been wrong on that. Apparently the problem was something else which caused the passenger low beam to quit. What? I don't know.