Headlights cutting out; Scary stuff!

[gmarkw]

2006 defender 130. In the last 2 weeks the headlights have cut out 3 times. No headlights or dashlights. After about 15 seconds, and plenty of frantic switching of the on/off headlight switch, they miraculously come back on and no more worries till the next time. The fuses are ok. If anyone can suggest what the problem might be I'd be very grateful as this is extremely dangerous. Thanks.

[Psimpson7]

Its probably the switch failing. They have a habit of getting hot, which means the metal conatcts move in the plastic switch and stop it working. When it happens does main beam still work?

Rgds
Pete

[Zinke]

2006 defender 130. In the last 2 weeks the headlights have cut out 3 times. No headlights or dashlights. After about 15 seconds, and plenty of frantic switching of the on/off headlight switch, they miraculously come back on and no more worries till the next time. The fuses are ok. If anyone can suggest what the problem might be I'd be very grateful as this is extremely dangerous. Thanks.

Mine did it a few times, then the dim dip relay packed in and its not done it since. Most likely the switch but its another place to have a look.

Pete

[gmarkw]

Its probably the switch failing. They have a habit of getting hot, which means the metal conatcts move in the plastic switch and stop it working. When it happens does main beam still work?

Rgds
Pete
No lights at all. I've been on high beam when it's happened, unsure if I've tried flicking back to low beam , as I'm too much in shock trying to come to a stop without crashing. Thanks

[weeds]

common problem, install a new switch with relays in the engine bay to stop all the current going through switch.......problem solved for good

[Kelly928]

common problem, install a new switch with relays in the engine bay to stop all the current going through switch.......problem solved for good

what he said.

I had exact symptoms described.

I did all checks (fuses wires..etc) and in my case the cause was very subtle and took ages to find problem. The shared power contact for the headlight was not fully contacting where brown power wire is connected on headlight switch. This was (as has been mentioned) caused by softening plastic surround.

I have temporarily applied a lot of solder and lights are working but will be getting new switch and relays soon.

No lights suddenly is freaky!

[gmarkw]

common problem, install a new switch with relays in the engine bay to stop all the current going through switch.......problem solved for good
Will order a new switch and relay today. Thanks heaps.

[5teve]

dont forget that drivesafe on here (index7 (http://www.traxide.com.au)) does kits specifically to upgrade the wiring... worth a look when you get a new switch

Thanks

Steve