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Converting XLT to auto headlights

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October 7, 2015
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City, State
Naples
Year, Model & Trim Level
2010 Ford Explorer XLT
I have a 2010 Explorer XLT that came without the auto headlight option. I believe it has the sun sensor installed, as I can see the black round item sticking out of the middle of the dash by the windshield (the same thing that flashes the red light for the alarm).

From some research I thought if I simply changed the headlight switch to one that has the auto light option, the automatic headlights would work. Apparently I was incorrect.

The truck's light switch came with manual lights with fog lights feature; I changed that out to a Motorcraft switch with the auto light feature. It installed perfectly, no modifications needed.

What am I missing to get this working? Thanks.
 



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I was hoping someone that knew more would respond but you have me instead. I believe that you would have to take it in and get it programmed in to the computer. I recall others doing similar things (like radio swaps, DRLs, etc.) and if the truck didn't come with it they have to tell it that you now have it.
 






I was hoping someone that knew more would respond but you have me instead. I believe that you would have to take it in and get it programmed in to the computer. I recall others doing similar things (like radio swaps, DRLs, etc.) and if the truck didn't come with it they have to tell it that you now have it.

Thanks. I've seen many with Mustangs doing it w/out any programing/flashing needed. I thought, prior to buying the switch, I had seen someone doing it on a G4 Explorer... I'm thinking it may be a relay, but the lights work fine manually....
 






I've got a 2008 XLT. Also tried the autolight switch with no luck. But I did notice that the headlights will turn on with the wipers when in auto mode. Still trying to figure this out as well.
 






For the longest time this called for a trip to a dealer or Ford specialist who has the right software to make changes to the BCM, or Body Control Module. On other Ford forums (outside of the Explorer) I have been reading a lot about folks getting FORScan to make all kinds of changes. I don't know for a fact that this will solve your issue, but seems like a route worth investigating. You'll need a quality OBD2 dongle, most use bluetooth, and the FORScan software on a PC or your Android or iPhone.

I believe I had a F150 in the early 2000's that had the light sensor in the dash that, unfortunately, wasn't physically connected to anything.
 












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