Thread: Location of Defender Headlight Relay

There is no relay in these, the headlamp switch is most likely melted, a common issue. Have you only got high beam flash function? Also, the headlamps will not work with ignition off.

JC

would that be the stalk on the steering column?

Yeah, I've only got parkers and can flash high beam. I've tested the switches and they seem to be working right.

The off/parkers/lights switch is fine. The high/low switch seems fine but I haven't taken it out for a close look for melting.

Parkers and flashing the high beam work with ignition on or off.

The main headlamp switch needs to be inspected closely by removing it and checking for signs of melting, the contacts recede into the plastic and no longer touch. You can also try and jump the main supply wire on the switch across to one of the other large wires, which will give you low beam to verify if the switch contacts have indeed failed.

I have fitted 2 of these in the last fortnight to Defenders and upgraded the wiring with proper relays to prevent it happening again.
See below...(same idea for Defender).

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/discovery-...grade-kit.html

JC

I did notice that one of the points on my switch wasn't making contact. I've built it up with some solder and it tests good now. I might look into it some more...

One thing that doesn't make sense is that the document I linked to is for my exact same car; a 97' Defender. Why would there be a relay in the diagram if it's not in the car... If it was only in some of them, where did they put it.

Relay Dim-dip is a UK home market special for a short lived UK requirement for low beam to be dimmed as well as dipped. It is not a headlight relay in the normally understood sense, and was only fitted to UK home market models.

I don't know if current Defenders have headlight relays, but all the Defenders, 90/110 and Series Landrovers up to the new dash (2007) certainly did not.

John

Originally Posted by JDNSW

Relay Dim-dip is a UK home market special for a short lived UK requirement for low beam to be dimmed as well as dipped. It is not a headlight relay in the normally understood sense, and was only fitted to UK home market models.

I don't know if current Defenders have headlight relays, but all the Defenders, 90/110 and Series Landrovers up to the new dash (2007) certainly did not.

John

John, no relays in current Puma either. .

JC

Yes, switch is renowned weak spot. I have replaced 2 switches in my 6 year old Defender. Fitted aftermarket relays.