GrandAm 94 headlight problem

[Oct714]

This morning when starting the car for work, I noticed the headlight will not turn ON. Everything worked, except the headlights. I switched to HIGHT BEAM and these worked, so I drove work with HIGHT BEAM lights

Any idea what could be the problem?

[95 Grand AM GT]

although its unlikely there's the possibility that both headlights blew... you could replace the bulbs. also check the fuse box... i'm not sure if the highs and the headlights are on the same fuse but... its worth a look. good luck i know it sucks driving without headlights

[98gpking]

Originally Posted by Oct714

This morning when starting the car for work, I noticed the headlight will not turn ON. Everything worked, except the headlights. I switched to HIGHT BEAM and these worked, so I drove work with HIGHT BEAM lights

Any idea what could be the problem?

the highs and lows both run off the same fuse. the chances are more than likely the switch went bad. i had a 95 grand am and the oppisite happend my highs stopped working but the lows worked fine.

also make sure nothing is wrong with your fog lights no shorts in the wires because the fog lights are linked to the same wiring as the headlights, notice the fog lights shut off when the highs come on

[xeroinfinity]

I would agree it is probly the multi function switch.

But also check the fuses and relay first.

and Welcome to AF Oct714 !

[Oct714]

Thanks all for your reply.

I checked the bulbs and these are not the problem, so I guess the switch is.

Just something else: does anybody know what parts I will have to remove in order to replace the switch? and also, is there a way to test it before buying a new one?

[skibum1111]

The switch can be removed without removal of the steering wheel. Remove the top and bottom covers of the steering column. The tilt lever also has to be removed to get the bottom of the cover off. The switch is held on by 3 screws. Unplug the electrical connector before you remove the screws, its alot easier that way. I would just replace the switch, its a common part to fail as it gets alot of use. I replaced mine at 145k miles and again at 235k miles, and the windshield wiper switch at 170k miles.

[Oct714]

I got a used switch at a junkyard, and installed it, but same problem. Now, I understand this "new" switch might also be bad, but given the "remote" possibility, I will try with the relay first, so I will appreciate it if someone tells me where this "headlight relay" is located.

Also, does anybody knows hot to test a headlight switch?

[jeffk388]

[Disclaimer: I am not responsible for any direct or indirct problems by following the procedures. You should copy this idea fully under your responsibility]

I had the same problem on my G-AM. What I did was
1) Locate the connecter (about 1" thick round) near the driver side.
2) Find pins for side lamps and head lamps
3) Bridge pins for head lamps to the side lamps
4) Put a higer amp fuse for the side lamps
5) Carry a couple of fuses in your car
6) Then side and head lamps are on together

By this was I repaired the head lamp problem for a penny.