'96 century dimmer switch problem

Hey all, I'm new here...and new to this problem >>> I have a 96 Century and the headlights come on automatically when I start the car. They have always come on since I bought the car. Lately however, the headlights failed to come on when I start the car. And last night, they came on and started to flash and go from bright to dim and go out. It seems to be a pattern...on, brights, dims, brights, dims, off, on, brights, dims, brights, dims, off, ...etc. I think it's some kind of warning. When I hold the signal light lever back (dimmer switch) they seem to stay on sometimes. But I can't be driving it this way? No lights or flashing lights make ti look like a highway patrol car!! Is the complete signal light/dimmerswitch/windshield washer/cruise control lever assy. repalacable or what should be done? Thank in advance if you can help!!
M-head