C5 Headlight Controler
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 65
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From: Fort Myers Florida
C5 Headlight Controler
I replaced the headlight controler on a '98 C5. Both headlights come out of the buckets. Since I replaced the controller I need to turn the switch on twice before the buckets open. The first time I turn on the headlights nothing happens. Then I turn off the switch and turn them back on and the buckets open. The original OEM controller fried after getting wet and I replaced it with a used controller. Could it be something in the controller or possibly the switch? Never had a problem before the replacement was put in. Are the controllers the same for all C5's 97-04.
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Joined: Dec 2006
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From: Van Buren Arkansas
Wounded Warrior Escort '11
The controller is sealed therefore unless its submerged, its not going to get wet inside...well, not normally. If it was submerged, you've got larger problems. The headlamp switch is probably your problem. What will happen is the intermittent raising and so on. If the lamps were on, but didn't raise, then that's the controller. If they aren't turning on and not raising, then its the switch. You can easily replace the switch without removing the steering wheel.
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 65
Likes: 1
From: Fort Myers Florida
The controller is sealed therefore unless its submerged, its not going to get wet inside...well, not normally. If it was submerged, you've got larger problems. The headlamp switch is probably your problem. What will happen is the intermittent raising and so on. If the lamps were on, but didn't raise, then that's the controller. If they aren't turning on and not raising, then its the switch. You can easily replace the switch without removing the steering wheel.
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 65
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From: Fort Myers Florida
Switch/Controller
I'll take a look at it as mentioned this weekend. I have been online pricing a new switch so far AC Delco is about $140. The other alturnitive would be a used part, but I have not looked into that as yet. Thanks again for your reply
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Joined: Dec 2003
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From: Horncastle Lincolnshire, England
2023 C5 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
If it is a problem with the contacts in the headlight switch you might want to try giving it a good old squirt of electronics cleaner first. Its been known for this stuff to clean it up enough to stop the problem
Worth a try first I'd say
Worth a try first I'd say
