96 ce c4
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
96 ce c4
Morning everyone, got a problem with my 96 CE Driver side Headlight. I've replace the motor but it still sticks. Sometimes it goes all the way in open position sometimes it only opens half way. Also when I try to just turn on the runining lights, the headlight pop up. I was thinking its the Headlight module or maybe the headlight switch. Anyone had any similar issues.
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2022
Posts: 152
Likes: 38
From: Washington State, USA
I suspect your headlight bushings which run inside your headlight gears may be shot. You can buy these for just a few $ on eBay. The gears may also be the issue, however they usually last longer than the six bushings do (three per light).
My lights are starting to act up as well on my C4 with just over 40,000 miles. Age seems to kill the bushings. There are a lot of good YouTube videos on the topic.
I am not certain why your headlight pops up when you turn on your running lights, as I have not encountered this issue (yet) - though I suspect your switch may have issues.
My lights are starting to act up as well on my C4 with just over 40,000 miles. Age seems to kill the bushings. There are a lot of good YouTube videos on the topic.
I am not certain why your headlight pops up when you turn on your running lights, as I have not encountered this issue (yet) - though I suspect your switch may have issues.
Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2021
Posts: 30
Likes: 1
From: Raleigh, NC
I agree with Mr. Bear. You would be well advised to check out the plastic bushing in the headlight rotating mechanism. They act as a clutch to rotate the headlight. Here is a good video that I used to fix both headlights on my 96CE. It will help you understand the problem and how to fix it.
Heel & Toe
Joined: May 2021
Posts: 15
Likes: 19
From: SW PA
I agree the bushings are probably the issue. I used this video when I rebuilt mine:
Seems to be a common issue on the C4, they used these strange plastic gears and bushings but I think to an extent it acts as a mechanical fuse so should something restrict movement you'll destroy the gears before you destroy the motor or light/housing.
Seems to be a common issue on the C4, they used these strange plastic gears and bushings but I think to an extent it acts as a mechanical fuse so should something restrict movement you'll destroy the gears before you destroy the motor or light/housing.
