QuestionMy lights don't work i have to use high beam to use light and when i use the low is nothing but the cover liftup???? When low beam worked it had a smell while i was driving like a magic marker or something....
AnswerHi Shu,
I suspect that the headlamp dimmer switch (the one that chooses between high and low) that is mounted on the left side of the steering column has got burned out switch contacts for the low beam light circuits. But just in case check fuses 3 and 4 under the dash to make sure they are not blown. If they are blown let me know and we will need to test why they blew. Otherwise:
To replace the switch you have to remove the cover from the underside of the steering column. Then notice that when you move the lever between high and low beam position that a rod is moved that runs along the column to the switch. So once you find the switch you only need to remove the screws that hold it in place, remove the plug, and slide it off the rod. Then replace it with a new one. Leave the screws loose until you have it placed so that is clicks properly when you move between high and low, then tighten the screws.
If you want to test the switch before you buy a replacement:
remove the plug. Then notice that there are 4 contacts in the switch, one that is alone, and three that are arranged like a U (l_l). When the switch is in the low position there should be continuity between the base of the U and the left side contact, and when the in the high position there should be continuity between the base of the U and the right side contact. If not, then the switch needs to be replaced. That switch was probably having a high resistance through the contacts which caused the odor, and it finally burned itself out.
Let me know if you need some more information.
Roland
