Litronic Headlight Problem

[ehung]

Hi,

I have a BoxsterS 986, 2000. The other day my litronic headlight started acting up. It would take a couple times before the headlights would turn on. Now it won't even turn on at all. All the lights work (fog light, high beam) except for the xenon lights (both lights are gone). I thought you don't have to ever replace xenon lights??? Has anyone had or heard of this problem and can recommend how best to fix this?

Thanks for your help in advance!

[usaf-lt-g]

Hi,

I have a BoxsterS 986, 2000. The other day my litronic headlight started acting up. It would take a couple times before the headlights would turn on. Now it won't even turn on at all. All the lights work (fog light, high beam) except for the xenon lights (both lights are gone). I thought you don't have to ever replace xenon lights??? Has anyone had or heard of this problem and can recommend how best to fix this?

Thanks for your help in advance!

It's possible the connection in the back is loose, and the lights aren't "officially" locked in. I had this problem originally when I replaced my headlights with the litronics. A good test is to try pushing with some force on one of the headlights to see if the xenon comes on. If it does, it means your litronics aren't properly locked.

If that's the case, The most likely problem is that the "headlight" hex key is warped like mine was and wasn't strong enough to turn the locking mechanism to the point where it actually locks them in. An easy workaround, is to take a ratchet with an extension and a 10mm socket. You have to apply SIGNIFICANT force to really lock them. You'll know they're locked when you a CLUNK. The original Porsche HEX key is easily warped and can't take all that force without turning in the lock.

Give this a shot, and let me know.

[zodman]

Hi ehung,

I've experienced the exact same thing, and I was able to diagnose and fix.

Before you pop the headlights out of the front of the car, try this:

Turn your headlight switch to the on position one slow click at a time, then once you are at the "on" position, then give the switch a firm tap dead center with something solid.

Another option is that once the switch is in the "on" position, then pull it straight out to the fog-light position. Then using the palm of your hand, hit the switch inward firmly.

The lights should then come on, indicating a faulty headlight switch.

Do a search here on the board for the DIY.

David

Edited June 12, 2008 by zodman

[ehung]

Thanks usaf-It-g and zodman!

Zodman, this is exaxtly what i saw on my car, I have experienced the same thing you are seeing on your car. I will try to search the link where it teaches you how to change the headlight switch.

Where do you buy the headlight switch and how much does it cost approximately?

[juniinc]

most likely the light switch assembly but why not remove the switch housing, meter those wires to be certain,,,

[zodman]

Thanks usaf-It-g and zodman!

Zodman, this is exaxtly what i saw on my car, I have experienced the same thing you are seeing on your car. I will try to search the link where it teaches you how to change the headlight switch.

Where do you buy the headlight switch and how much does it cost approximately?

The DIY link is here:

http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?s...amp;#entry14800

Keep in mind the little "keeper - V" at the bottom of the knob requires a small flathead screwdriver and just a tiny upward poke to release the knob.

Sunsetimports has good prices and they support this forum:

http://www.sunsetimports.com/catalog.php

Under the catalog for boxster it's filed under BODY ELECTRICAL>MOTORS, SWITCHES & RELAYS>HEADLAMP SWITCH

The part number is:

99661353500

and sells for $64.74 + shipping

[ehung]

Thanks Zodman. I am going to order the item today and let you know if that solve my problem.

[ehung]

Finaly got the part this weekend... after installing the new headlight switch now the Litronic headlight works!!! Thanks Zodman for the advice, save me a trip down to the dealearship :)

Edited June 23, 2008 by ehung