Headlights dimming...

I have a 98 Windstar. It does not have DRLs. But I noticed when driving the last few nights that every once in awhile the headlights (and dashboard lights) will dim for a split second and then return to their normal brightness. I first noticed it driving on a gravel road and attributed it to that. But soon after I noticed the same thing while driving on the highway.

Is this a preview to something wearing out? Where should I look to resolve the problem? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

mptc

Could be the headlight switch starting to get hot and fail on you.

Could be the headlight switch starting to get hot and fail on you.

Is that a quick fix? IOW, order switch from Ford and replace it?
Thanks for the response.

mptc

mptc:

Did this fix your problem .... I'm having same problem ?

AJ

my first stab at this problem would be that the alternator is starting to fail or at least the voltage regulator portion. I'm not sure if the voltage regulator is part of the alternator or separate.

mptc:

Did this fix your problem .... I'm having same problem ? I've relaced the battery and alternator and still same problem. Did replaciing headlight switch work ? I've also heard it could be a relay, but not sure which one and where to start ? Anyone have ideas ??
AJ

AJ:

I have not noticed the problem lately. Since I posted the question, I have replaced the alternator and the serpentine belt. In addition, the headlight lenses were so yellowed and cloudy that I replaced both headlight assemblies. I am not sure that it is fixed. As far as the switch or the relay, I would work from least to most expensive. I am sure someone on this forum can point you in the right direction.

Sorry I can't be of more help.

Good Luck!

mptc

It seems that the circuit breaker for the headlights is inside the headlight switch.
Is your switch getting warm when your headlights have been on for a while?....if so...replace the headlight switch.
Mine was getting warm........ordered a Motorcraft replacement through rockauto.....new one does not get warm.
Mine were not dimming....however, once in a while when I would turn them on....they would come on.....off and then back on.
I had the right turn signal becoming intermittent with a buzzing sound.....so I decided to just replace both while I was at it.
I posted pictures of the "multi-switch" and the headlight switch replacement in the pictures that the link in my signature takes you to.

Another thing that could cause a slight dimming of headlights is when the A/C compressor first engages......as it is a bit of a load all of a sudden until it gets turning.

I have a 98 Windstar. It does not have DRLs. But I noticed when driving the last few nights that every once in awhile the headlights (and dashboard lights) will dim for a split second and then return to their normal brightness. I first noticed it driving on a gravel road and attributed it to that. But soon after I noticed the same thing while driving on the highway.

Is this a preview to something wearing out? Where should I look to resolve the problem? Any input would be greatly appreciated!

mptc

I would check your headlamp switch wiring harness for heat and burnt terminals. Ford sells repalcement switches and headlamp switch connectors

Yes, but you can also repair it w/o replacing anything... by cracking the code!
Check there, it explains how: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfHNj1jIrgE
Then the light will be alway on when the car is turned on.

Because actually, it's a 5 positions switch, but 2 are hidden:

http://bp3.blogger.com/_nugUCrv2SZ0/RgP94rSEPqI/AAAAAAAAAAM/wPuD3SiGdR8/s320/ford+headlight+switch.jpg