how to replace headlight switch (dash mounted pull switch)
What is your question?
1999 BMW Z3 2.5 : dimmer / rheostat on headlight switch doesn't work. Switch is pull -out type mounted on dash, turn when on to control instrument panel lights. All lights work correctly except dimmer function, leaving no instrument panel lights . So can't see speed, oil, rpm, etc. All lights come on when key is turned on, so it's not the bulbs; checked the fuses also.
Seems like headlight switch unit needs to be replaced. Any help? Thanks
RepairPal Certified shops can diagnose and repair your 1999 BMW Z3. They provide transparent pricing with a minimum 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty on repairs and services.
Hello, can't say for sure. This rheostat should also control lighting and dimming for other dash components. Does dimming work for the other components? If multiple areas -- instrumentation and console instrumentation both are affected, then I would lean towards the switch as you are saying. If only one area, like instrumentation only, is affected, then it could be that component instead.
Testing with diagnostic tools and a DVOM would be best to undertake.
no lighting / dimming to anything when turning the switch. Really need help to remove it. Attempted removal yesterday, looks like the panel (?) which includes the vent & vent control dial should pull out, Got it wedged out about 3/4 of an inch after unscrewing light switch knob, but couldn't see what what was still holding it in & didn't want to force & break something else.underneath switch dial didn't see any screw, just the (post ?) sticking out that the switch knob was threaded onto. Definitely something else in that spot that's holding the whole panel to the dash. Two small slots around circular area may be snapped in/out? Will photo so I can see it more clearly. Thanks for your help.
ok, took a pic w/ipad, and can clearly see that there's a small phillips screw on the top edge, at an angle that i couldn't see looking straight at it. Removing that and the plastic putty knife should pry that *&^%$! out of there.
no lighting / dimming to anything when turning the switch. Really need help to remove it. Attempted removal yesterday, looks like the panel (?) which includes the vent & vent control dial should pull out, Got it wedged out about 3/4 of an inch after unscrewing light switch knob, but couldn't see what what was still holding it in & didn't want to force & break something else.underneath switch dial didn't see any screw, just the (post ?) sticking out that the switch knob was threaded onto. Definitely something else in that spot that's holding the whole panel to the dash. Two small slots around circular area may be snapped in/out? Will photo so I can see it more clearly. Thanks for your help.
ok, took a pic w/ipad, and can clearly see that there's a small phillips screw on the top edge, at an angle that i couldn't see looking straight at it. Removing that and the plastic putty knife should pry that *&^%$! out of there.