Passat electrical problem fan /wiper /lights

[jgduffy]

My 1996 Passat TDI has electrical issues. The heater fan, lights and wipers only work when I hit the high beam switch. I can't use low beams or leave highs on. If wiper switch and fan are on they come on when and only when I hit that switch. I'm thinking a ground or switch problem. Fuses look fine. Any thoughts??

[boschmann]

Try jiggling & slightly turning the key in the switch & see if that changes things. Ignition switches (electrical part) can cause strange problems as you describe.

[jgduffy]

Originally Posted by boschmann

Try jiggling & slightly turning the key in the switch & see if that changes things. Ignition switches (electrical part) can cause strange problems as you describe.

Thanks, I'll give that a try. If that is the case should I replace the ignition switch?

[Denny G]

Originally Posted by jgduffy

My 1996 Passat TDI has electrical issues. The heater fan, lights and wipers only work when I hit the high beam switch. I can't use low beams or leave highs on. If wiper switch and fan are on they come on when and only when I hit that switch. I'm thinking a ground or switch problem. Fuses look fine. Any thoughts??

If youo look around I think you will find a number of ground straps. There might be two on the engine, in addition to the battery ground. I have been told of goofy things like you describe happening when there is a bad ground.

Denny G

[jgduffy]

Originally Posted by Denny G

If youo look around I think you will find a number of ground straps. There might be two on the engine, in addition to the battery ground. I have been told of goofy things like you describe happening when there is a bad ground.

Denny G

I swapped out the ignition switch a while back and have had no problem. All symptoms have vanished. I hope I get another 250,000 miles out of her. Thanks