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Dim interior/dashboard lighting

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Old Jun 4, 2018 | 11:46 AM
  #1  
judy1's Avatar
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Year: 1992
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4L I-6
Default Dim interior/dashboard lighting

I've a 1992 Cherokee Laredo 4x4. I've noticed the interior lighting, and dashboard lighting are very dim (I can't brighten the dash lighting). Also noticed my headlights are dim too. The issue doesn't seem to be intermittent. Recently had the charging system inspected, and they said the alternator is fine.

I'd like feedback....questions too if necessary. Not sure what part/system to start troubleshooting.

Thanks!
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Old Jun 4, 2018 | 03:51 PM
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Year: '96
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Sounds like it could be a ground issue,a headlight switch problem,or both. If so and you get it straightened out you need to do a headlight harness upgrade.
https://www.cherokeeforum.com/f74/he...pgrade-219596/
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Old Jun 4, 2018 | 09:33 PM
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What type of grounding issue would it be? And, does a new headlight harness effect the interior/dash lighting too or is this attributed to a/the grounding issue?
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Old Jun 4, 2018 | 09:40 PM
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That was unclear...an electrical grounding issue of course. Any particular area? may be the better question!

Thanks!
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Old Jun 5, 2018 | 06:20 AM
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Since some control of all the lights that are dim run through the headlight switch that's where I'd start. You could clean and grease (dielectric grease) the contacts and see if it helps. But it could be the switch is just worn out. Look for any signs of heat related damage to both the switch and the connector. Since there are no relays in the headlight circuit on the XJ's a lot of heat (too much) develops in that switch. That's the reason most here upgrade to a headlight harness with relays.
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Old Jun 5, 2018 | 06:55 AM
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Originally Posted by EZEARL
Since some control of all the lights that are dim run through the headlight switch that's where I'd start. You could clean and grease (dielectric grease) the contacts and see if it helps. But it could be the switch is just worn out. Look for any signs of heat related damage to both the switch and the connector. Since there are no relays in the headlight circuit on the XJ's a lot of heat (too much) develops in that switch. That's the reason most here upgrade to a headlight harness with relays.
This^^.
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Old Jun 5, 2018 | 10:47 AM
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I definitely noticed an improvement in the interior/dash light intensity when I did the headlight harness upgrade.
I've never touched the switch so I have no idea what condition mine is in, but my grounds are good.

The headlight upgrade is super easy and cheap. Direct plug and play - no cutting or splicing wires. Jhc7399 sells a quality harness for a fair price and ships quickly. PM him if you want to go that route.
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