Nissan Repair: 2000 headlight socket repair, gauge wire, best bet

Question
QUESTION: i have changed my passenger side headlight twice. one of the terminals of the socket plug is grounding out the light. the high light is still operable.what could be the source of the shorting out?

ANSWER: Hi Kaiola -

When you say grounding out, does it blow the fuse? If you wiggle the terminal connection does the light work at all?

Let me know before I start the diagnosis -

Thanks!
aloha
calvin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: No, it does not blow the fuse. Yes, when I wiggle it, it will work. The terminal connection seems to heat and melt the plastic of the terminal housing. It's for a 2000 Maxima. There is no "boot" covering the back of the terminal, because that too has melted. Mahalo

Answer
Hi Kaiola -

You will have to replace the entire terminal and wire system. Any loose electrical connection causes extra heat, and that is why your components are melting. Your best bet is to find that wire section (I think the dealer should have it), or perhaps a competent electrical shop can re-wire what is needed. Using a larger gauge wire will also help with the heat.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin