|
|
Non-functioning low-beams on '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport
|
|
|
| |
|
|
cwabney
New User
Jan 7, 2009, 6:20 AM
Post #1 of 6
(2777 views)
|
|
Non-functioning low-beams on '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport
|
Sign In
|
|
The headlamps on my '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport won't work consistently.
First things first: '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport; 4.0L; 240,000 miles.
I noticed this a few days ago when I got in and tried to turn them on. The parking lights work, as do the high-beams, but the low beams will not consistently turn on. If I sit and let the car run for a few minutes, the low beams will eventually turn on, though this can take anywhere from 2 - 20 minutes. This has happened with the low beams turned on (but not working until they just "start," seemingly of their own accord), with the lights shut off completely (and then they do start when I try to turn them on again in a few minutes), and with both parking lights and high-beams turned on (click off the high-beams, and the low beams are working).
If I get the low beams to work, then turn them off, then try them again, they turn back on immediately and function normally. If I turn them off, shut the vehicle off, sit for a few moments, and then turn the vehicle on and check the lights, again, they function normally.
I haven't noticed any flickering in any of the lights or the electrical system in general. When they turn on, they stay on.
I don't even know where to begin troubleshooting this. When the lights weren't working, I popped the hood and tried to wiggle cables in hopes of finding a break or short somewhere. It was dark, I was unsuccessful, and ended up driving home with my brights on (until the low beams started working...). Sadly, that is the extent of it.
Any wisdom on the matter would be appreciated.
|
|
| |
|
|
DrElectrics
Enthusiast
Jan 7, 2009, 3:42 PM
Post #2 of 6
(2772 views)
|
Re: Non-functioning low-beams on '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport
|
Sign In
|
|
1st step is to change your globes, it does sound like a power supply issue with both of your lights going out. But we need to start fresh with new globe filaments. Next thing to check is exactly what you did in the dark, but in the light. Take the rubber boot off the back of yoru light and make sure that the cables are all nicely in place and there is no bare wires hanging out anywhere. A little on the connection is fine. After this, the next thing is your headlight relay. You may want to just replace this as you may not have the tools to check it. A headlight relay goes for about $10. It is found under the hood, in the fuse box, and it will be marked as such. Make the appropriate changes and checks and let me know how you go.
|
|
| |
|
|
cwabney
New User
Jan 7, 2009, 3:43 PM
Post #3 of 6
(2770 views)
|
|
Re: Non-functioning low-beams on '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport
|
Sign In
|
|
Thanks a ton! I'll see to it in the morning (as soon as it gets light).
|
|
| |
|
|
cwabney
New User
Jan 8, 2009, 7:37 AM
Post #4 of 6
(2763 views)
|
|
Re: Non-functioning low-beams on '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport
|
Sign In
|
|
It was the relay. I replaced it this morning and the lights work great. Of course, the parts store sold me the wrong relay and don't carry the right one (so my blinkers are just "on" instead of blinking -- I'll check the internet & if nothing else, a salvage yard).
Anyhow, thanks for the help. I really appreciate it!
|
|
| |
|
|
way2old
Veteran
/ Moderator
Jan 8, 2009, 7:56 AM
Post #5 of 6
(2761 views)
|
|
Re: Non-functioning low-beams on '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport
|
Sign In
|
|
Get it from Chrysler. They are not that expensive.
Being way2old is why I need help from younger minds
|
|
| |
|
|
cwabney
New User
Jan 10, 2009, 12:36 PM
Post #6 of 6
(2751 views)
|
|
Re: Non-functioning low-beams on '96 Jeep Cherokee Sport
|
Sign In
|
|
And I have to retract my statement... I bought a new relay from Crystler and installed it. Still no lights. When I bought the cheap starter from Autozone, the lights did come on (though the turn signals didn't blink). Later, when I tried the lights again (and after I had posted about the success with the relay), they did not come on. I assumed I had smoked the relay, as it was the wrong one, and that purchasing the correct relay would solve the problem. Clearly, I was wrong and suck at life.
I've checked the wiring to the best of my ability up by the headlamps and everything looks good. The wires are insulated, the connections seem very firm and the copper is not corroded. I pulled the bottom part of my dash apart to get a look at the relay-containing box, opened it (gently), and examined the wiring and connections in there. Again, they all seem firm. Finally, (and largely in desperation) I checked all the fuses both under the dash of the Jeep and in the power distribution center (near the battery in the engine). All of the fuses were intact.
While I have no idea what to do next, I did notice something that may (or may not) be helpful during my investigation under the dash. Following the wires from the relay in question, two lead to a second relay which is silver and cylindrical in shape (but without any part number or distinguishing markings). From that second relay, a red wire leads out and into the bundle of wires that ultimately runs through the firewall (I assume, anyway). Anyhow, what I noticed is that the second relay is very warm -- almost hot to the touch. I'm assuming this isn't normal. Should I replace this relay as well, or is it unlikely to have any impact on my lights. High beams and turn signals all still work, and if the low beams do come on, there is no flickering.
Please help. Any advice is greatly appreciated.
|
|
| |
|
| | |
|
Auto Repair Home
SEARCH
WHO'S 
LOG 
mdma pills for sale : WhatsApp +33758633852
Drive Shaft Repair
2006 Toyoto Camry XLE Driver Side Electric Window Trouble
equipment
