headlights blink when tilting wheel

454ss · May 1, 2004

i know this isnt engine/drivline related but i didnt know where to post it so i put it here. anyway, i noticed the headlights on my 1997 gmc go out when i tilt the steering wheel. by moving the wheel i can make them go out and come back on. the running lights are not affected, just the headlights. has anybody had this problem before? the only thing i can think of is that the wires that run through the steering column for the dimmer switch must be wearing from bending as the wheel is tilted. any ideas?

Rookie · May 1, 2004

its you multi function switch in your column. they wear out from tilting your wheel . actualy its the wires are fraying. good luck either find some one to fix it or what i did was got a new column at the bone yard.

Worktruck · May 1, 2004

I had this problem last fall. I had installed the R&D headlight controller and the extra load from the high beams being on all the time had fried the wiring to the multifunction switch. The switch itself sells for $285 at most dealers and the online vendors on the left. It's not to hard to change, you can do it without removing the wheel. I just used a torx bit that you would usually use in a drill or changable screwdriver for the hard to reach screws. Rookie is problably right. You may be able to get a column from a salvage yard for less than the price of the switch new. Good Luck.

454ss · May 1, 2004

worktruck, what is involved in changing the switch and how long does it take? i also have the headlight conversion from painless wiring installed. did you remove yours? thanks a lot guys! i may do it this afternoon if i can find a switch.

citydriver · May 2, 2004

Changing the switch is'nt bad,but you will have to remove the steering wheel to remove the 2 screws that hold the column cover together....aat least thats how it is on my '95 which has the same column.......a Ciltons manul explains the procedure preety well.