Headlights freaking out! Help!

[patmel]

Every time I turn off the ignition, the headlights flip up by themselves then immediately go back down. While this happens, there is a "loud" buzzing sound that lasts for about 10 seconds.

Is this the motor that controls the lights burning out? Will they just permanently stop working soon?

I don't have much automotive knowledge. What should I do? I assume this is going to cost a lot to fix.

My Firebird has 190K on it, and it's been a great car. I really want to keep it, even if it means replacing major parts now and then. Things are finally starting to break. Is it a good idea to hold onto this car?

THANKS FOR YOUR TIME!!!

[frizbal]

Originally Posted by patmel

Every time I turn off the ignition, the headlights flip up by themselves then immediately go back down. While this happens, there is a "loud" buzzing sound that lasts for about 10 seconds.

Is this the motor that controls the lights burning out? Will they just permanently stop working soon?

I don't have much automotive knowledge. What should I do? I assume this is going to cost a lot to fix.

My Firebird has 190K on it, and it's been a great car. I really want to keep it, even if it means replacing major parts now and then. Things are finally starting to break. Is it a good idea to hold onto this car?

THANKS FOR YOUR TIME!!!

Is it more of a grinding noise? if so its the gear inside the motor being stripped. yes they will eventually not come up. and as to why they they come on i havent a clue. go somewhere and try to find somewhere that checks codes . If you ever have a major problem with the motor then i would just suggest getting rid of it. but this problem is minor.

[FormulaForce]

Look here for a permanent fix, but you'll have to have someone with mechanical skill help you. At least read it, so you'll know what the problem is.


http://www.bfranker.badz28.com/headlightfix/index.htm

[patmel]

Thanks dudes! Without your advice, I would be totally at the mercy of a possibly unethical mechanic!

So if my engine needs replacement, which is inevitable eventually (I assume), then I should get rid of the car? Spending a few thousand on an engine seems more appealing than a car note for 5 years. Plus I love this car.

Please advise!

Thanks!

[ikeyballz]

meh, 190K doesnt sound too bad :B well just drive the car till it dies, when it does, decide..ya kno? no point getting all worked up if it doesnt die..some cars are better than others..some cars will die at <100K, some cars can go wayy over 200K...

and, btw, i think the person before me read the problems wrong. theres a short along your electronic stuff somewhere.. im guessing its near your ignition//light switch...theres no reason why it should go up just because u turn the ignition, then come back down...

[rather_b_boatin]

Just wanted to add... Don't go junk yarding for the headlight motors, just pay the $250 each, not worth the headache later. Replaced them both on my 96'

[patmel]

Yes, this makes sense! My turn signal lights are burning out very quickly also...the left just burnt out again. I think that someone (Wal-Mart mechanic maybe) screwed something up with the wiring when thet were replacing a headlight. They had a lot of trouble with it last time. These are a pain in the *** to change, so I always bring the car in.

So do you think I'm in for a hefty bill to get the short fixed? I mean....first they must find it, and that can take a while. Not to mention the way many shops will "fudge" labor hours. It's just ridiculous these days...the cost of repairs ($60-80 per hour).

I hope my car makes it to 300K because I am not prepared to take on another car note for a while. I have babied it for the most part. I don't race it or rev it up too much.

THANKS FOR YOUR TIME!!

Originally Posted by ikeyballz

meh, 190K doesnt sound too bad :B well just drive the car till it dies, when it does, decide..ya kno? no point getting all worked up if it doesnt die..some cars are better than others..some cars will die at <100K, some cars can go wayy over 200K...

and, btw, i think the person before me read the problems wrong. theres a short along your electronic stuff somewhere.. im guessing its near your ignition//light switch...theres no reason why it should go up just because u turn the ignition, then come back down...

[patmel]

Hi,

I was referring to getting rid of the car due to engine problems (if this occurred), not the headlights.

$500!? Not cheap. I used to have an 82 Trans Am. I had to manually roll up the headlights when the headlight motors went out. I suppose I can't do this to a 99 model?

Thanks!

Originally Posted by rather_b_boatin

Just wanted to add... Don't go junk yarding for the headlight motors, just pay the $250 each, not worth the headache later. Replaced them both on my 96'