Remove and replace headlight switch

[burchtrees]

Hello to all,

I am new to the forum, so here goes... I own a 1997 explorer XLT and the headlight switch (not the multi-function switch on the steering column) totally came loose and won't work. After a preliminary look (in the dark literally) it appeared that I need to remove half the dash to get access to the critter. Does anyone know how to replace this switch? I'd appreciate any assistance at all.

Thanks again, burchtrees

 

[Joe Dirt]

You will need to:

Remove two bolts under the radio and pull out that bezel

Remove four 9/32 bolts (or screws seen vehicles with bolts, some with phillips screws, some hex screws) on the very bottom of the panel by your knees (two hidden under the hood release handle)

Remove two bolts right behind the top seam of that panel under the steering wheel holding the top panel to the dash (you should be able to pull the steel panel by your knees down slightly to get to them, but you may need to remove or loosen yours, depends on if someone has had it off before)

Remove the three bolts holding the top cover inside the upper lip by the instrument cluster

Then you can remove the dash panel holding the switch

 

[aminor1950]

Has anyone done this?

Did it work; did you actually replace the switch?

 

[koda2000]

i've had the dash apart to change light bulbs and have had the piece with the light switch off and in my hands. i can't say whether changing the switch will solve your problem, but follow Joe Dirt's instructions on how to get at the switch.

 

[jremington59]

And be careful taking off the connections to the switch. The little plastic tabs break easy.

 

[masospaghetti]

Yeah you have to take apart most of the dash to get to the switch - but its really not that bad. I can do it now in about 15 minutes (but I've done it a bunch of times)

 

[aminor1950]

Cool...!

This site really works.

Okay, so now I'll work on using the instructions, and getting to the switch.

We'll see how that works-out.