Q: Headlights don't turn off, wait a bit and flash highbeam or turning car back on switch off. Otherwise, unplugging fuses

asked by on January 17, 2018

My headlights do not turn off the normal way through the switch. Sometimes, the lights can be turn off by waiting about 5 minutes, then flash high beams or turning the car back on, and the lights will turn off them. Worst case scenario is to go the Passenger Junction Box, and unplug the fuses.

My car has 186000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

The problem can be caused by a stuck headlight relay or light control module and the control switch. I would suggest replacing the light relay first and then seek a mechanic like one from YourMechanic to do further diagnosis if needed.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car takes off without pressing gas pedal
Hi there. With the exception of the oil change light, all of these issues would require closer inspection in order to determine the exact cause. A high idle and movement without pressing the gas can be caused by many problems,...
1998 Toyota Corolla won't accelerate
A low fluid level will cause the transmission to not go into a drive gear fully. The differential seals from the transaxle can leak, and cause fluid level to drop. If these seals are leaking, they will need to be...
Passenger-side brake light won't work even after replacing bulb
Since the problem is only on one side, you can rule out the fuse and other parts of the circuit that are shared by both bulbs. I would look closely at the connector for the nonfunctional bulb, as it may...
My car won't start.
Hello, thanks for writing in but you did not mention the make, model, or year of vehicle. However, this problem is most likely caused by the ignition switch not making good contact. Check and replace the ignition switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-switch-replacement) if...
My car will start and the theft light comes on then car jerks
Hello, and thank you for writing in. When multiple sensors and warning lights appear to fail, the culprit is typically electrical. You may want to start with a basic charging system test, which would include testing the battery and the...
2009 chevy malibu were is the fuel filter
Hi Michael. The fuel filter on these late model GM's is located under the rear trunk of the vehicle, attached to the fuel tank actually. You can review this video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qktNyi7ZRI4) of a similar Cobalt to see how it's replaced....
I have a 2011 Honda Accord the car was doing great until i now have to give it a little gas to start what could this mean ?
Hi Olivia. Thanks for sending in your question today. If you have to press the gas pedal to get your Honda Accord to start, then it's likely not a battery issue - but either dirty fuel system components or a...
When I get a jumpstart it works drive it for 10 miles and cut it off and it want crank again it's completely dead
You possibly have a dead battery and/or a faulty charging system. The very first thing to do is be sure you have a fully, 100% charged battery that passes a load test (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-is-dead-inspection). If the battery passes a load test...
I want to buy a 2006 Mazda 6 with 141,000 miles on it. Is this a good car?
Hi Ashdin. Thanks for contacting us today. The Mazda 6 is a hit or miss type of vehicle in regards to reliability. Some of them have no mechanical issues, while others develop transmission problems after about 10 years. However, the...

Related articles

How Frequently Do Headlight Bulbs Burn Out?
Headlights Headlights aren’t just convenience accessories – they’re required for driving at night. They’re also important for safety, which is why so many modern cars come with daytime running lights as a standard feature. Of course, light bulbs have a...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Don’t Have Kids
Buying Buying a used car is rarely a simple process, but if you don’t have kids, you have many more options than those who have to account for additional passengers. There are plenty of choices out there, depending on your...
How to Install Offroad Lights on Your Vehicle
When When you’re pounding through backcountry trails after the sun goes down, you need more than just your headlights to illuminate the road ahead of you. Offroad lights come in many shapes and sizes including: Bumper-mounted spotlights Grille-mounted offroad lights...