Xenon problem, blinks intermittend once in 10 min.

[Pyramid]

Hi, I seem to have a problem with my Boxster S (2002). Both headlights look fine when switching on, however, after about 10 minutes driving the left headlight blinks one time (goes off, and on) and everything seems to be normal again. This repeats in an irregular pattern. I tried to find out if it has something to do with bumps, or steering actions, but this does not seem the case.

Does anyone recognise this problem?

Couldn't find this in the other forums.

Thanks, John (Netherlands)

[pk2]

I have to admit I know ziltch about Xeon lightsin particular but, It may a case that they’re either 100% on or 100% off depending on the voltage. That is, if the current dips below some threshold, instead of dimming, it turns off.

This could be caused by a crappy ground. Sometimes it’s enough, sometimes not.

A test:, Take the bulb out and work backwards. Jump it (12v direct to battery) and let it stay on for 15 minuets (or whatever) see if it blinks, than plug it back in and go to the next junction and jump it there for 15 again etc, etc..

Also, look for any correlation anywhere; the weather, what other devices are on, how the car is weighted etc. All of above and then some have stopped me in my tracks…not just a blink either.

Regards,

Pk

[Loren]

I have to admit I know ziltch about Xeon lightsin particular but, It may a case that they’re either 100% on or 100% off depending on the voltage. That is, if the current dips below some threshold, instead of dimming, it turns off.

This could be caused by a crappy ground. Sometimes it’s enough, sometimes not.

A test:, Take the bulb out and work backwards. Jump it (12v direct to battery) and let it stay on for 15 minuets (or whatever) see if it blinks, than plug it back in and go to the next junction and jump it there for 15 again etc, etc..

Also, look for any correlation anywhere; the weather, what other devices are on, how the car is weighted etc. All of above and then some have stopped me in my tracks…not just a blink either.

Regards,

Pk

Xenon is a gas discharge bulb and requires very voltage to ignite and start the gas. I am afraid putting 12 volts across it will do nothing.

He should swap the bulb from one side to the other though - then see if the problem follows the bulb.

[Pyramid]

Ok guys, I'll try and swap left for right and let you know the results. It might take a while, because I do not drive so much nowadays. The weather is getting colder over here.

John

[Glyn]

I had same problem, ordered two new D2S bulbs - problem gone.

Mine did something but was not quite sure what they did, I would be driving and the left lamp would sort of flash - like lightning but the lamp would remain on, It was all so quick and totally random when it would happen that i couldnt actually be looking at the area when it would do it, Eventually the problem got worse, more frequent and the bulb would go out, turning the lights off and back on would sort the problem- I had a choice in my mind between the light switch - a know weak spot for the Boxster or the bulbs - Picked two bulbs up for £30 - fitted - problem resolved