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Headlights not working!

Old Mar 10, 2010 | 09:08 PM
  #1  
stinkypete85's Avatar
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From: Ashtabula Ohio (NE)
Year: 1994
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 H.O.
Default Headlights not working!

So, I went for a to everybody's favorite store, Wal-Mart. When I left I noticed my headlights are not working. It is only the headlights, all others still work. I checked the fuse first thing. I could get the brights to work by holding the switch back on the column. Does anyone know what this could be? Could it be both headlights burned out at the same time, possibly from a surge?
I could really use some headlights asap. Thanks in advance
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Old Mar 10, 2010 | 09:25 PM
  #2  
96_xj's Avatar
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From: Gilbert AZ/Las Cruces NM
Year: 1996
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 upgraded
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is the headlight switch, ever napa i have ever been to carries them in stock. common part to break (if it is on a 96 and older cherokee. you need some time and to be calm when replacing it as it is a small area to work in. but easy plug n play fix. mine went out twice so far (copper contact broke the second time, worn out the first time).


take the bezel off the dash and plastic off the steering wheel that is between the dash and steering wheel (3 T-15/20 bolts cant remember the actual size)

the *** on the switch pulls right out with a bit off force (your not going to break it but it takes a bit to pull it out)

you then take a big flat head screw driver and unscrew it. you unscrew it where you pulled out the ***.

the electrical connector is on top of the switch you have to release the clip and unplug it, also there is a single wire underneath the switch too.

pull it out and reverse the order to install.

***make sure you save the *** and the piece you unscrewed as you need those to reinstall the new switch.


Good luck and have fun.

i can take pictures of how to do it if you need any
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Old Mar 10, 2010 | 09:32 PM
  #3  
stinkypete85's Avatar
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From: Ashtabula Ohio (NE)
Year: 1994
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 H.O.
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Thanks a bunch. Guess I'll be doing that first thing after work.
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Old Mar 12, 2010 | 03:19 PM
  #4  
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From: Fairfield, CA
Year: 1989
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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mines been slowly dying and last night I lost my headlights altogether, got a new switch waiting for me down the street at napa. nice break down and removal.
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Old Mar 12, 2010 | 05:56 PM
  #5  
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From: Fairfield, CA
Year: 1989
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0
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so that was a complete *****... not only was the switch dimmer loose, but the H terminal was extra crispy. its a 12ga wire and the length of wire to play with is difficult. I pushed wire through the **** shaft hole on dash and crimped new connector there, then put the main connector back on. works great now, not too friendly on big hands tho.
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Old Mar 12, 2010 | 06:10 PM
  #6  
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From: Gilbert AZ/Las Cruces NM
Year: 1996
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 upgraded
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glad you got it fixed! and yeah note my comment about staying calm luckily its a once in a while deal
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Old Mar 13, 2010 | 06:02 PM
  #7  
stinkypete85's Avatar
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From: Ashtabula Ohio (NE)
Year: 1994
Model: Cherokee
Engine: 4.0 H.O.
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Yep. You were dead on, too the T. Mine is a 94'. I was having a hard time, so I came inside for a breather, went back out and had it done in like 5 minutes. Thanks for the quick and detailed reply. When I did a search I was surprised I couldn't find anything.
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