Can the Headlight Switch be serviced (fixed) or only replaced

[granddane]

I have a 2002 C4 Cab Tip US, and the headlight switch has begun to fail. It requires some pressure to turn for the main lights but the driving lights - are no problem. From the Great Forum (thank you !!) I gather that several people have replaced the switch, but has anyone tried to service it? Can it be done? Is there some contact lubricant (WD40?) which could be applied inside the switch?

Regards

Morten

:renntech:

[wvicary]

It's best to replace the switch. If you did manage to clean it the contact area is worn and it will only be a poor stop gap until in the end you'll need to replace the unit.

[mattntp]

the only proper repair is to have the switch replaced as an assembly with a porsche factory part.

[elm28]

I cleaned mine just take it out and use the cleaning spray that is used for cleaning MAF's

[Joel Pirela]

If you need to clean it, you already took it out from the dash. That's enough work for me to justify replacement. it's only $80. What if you tear your dash apart, take the bad switch, clean it, try it and doesn't work? then need to put everything back together, order the new one wait a week or so, tear everything apart again and put it together. Cleaning it will only provide a band aid as the unit is sealed and no way to service it.

[1schoir]

I have a 2002 C4 Cab Tip US, and the headlight switch has begun to fail. It requires some pressure to turn for the main lights but the driving lights - are no problem. From the Great Forum (thank you !!) I gather that several people have replaced the switch, but has anyone tried to service it? Can it be done? Is there some contact lubricant (WD40?) which could be applied inside the switch?

Regards

Morten

:renntech:

Morten:

There was a post here a few days ago from "Glyn" that specifically explained how to take the switch apart.

Don't lubricate the inside with WD-40. There are lubricants specifically made to protect against corrosion of electrical circuits AND help with conductivity at the same time. Radio Shack carries such a spray.

Regards, Maurice.

[1schoir]

I have a 2002 C4 Cab Tip US, and the headlight switch has begun to fail. It requires some pressure to turn for the main lights but the driving lights - are no problem. From the Great Forum (thank you !!) I gather that several people have replaced the switch, but has anyone tried to service it? Can it be done? Is there some contact lubricant (WD40?) which could be applied inside the switch?

Regards

Morten

:renntech:

Morten:

Here is the thread I was referring to. It also has a nice photo of the inside of the switch provided by "Grover":

http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?s...mp;#entry165421

Regards, Maurice.

[dangler]

I had success spraying QD Electronic Cleaner in the small holes and around the rotor shaft of the headlamp switch, then actuating the switch many times. I will reply if the switch fails again.

 

Many people say to replace the switch, but they are not considering a scenario where you must get the headlamps working to get home.