Q: High beam headlight not working properly.

asked by on December 29, 2016

I have a 1996 Suzuki Swift. The temporary high beam headlight works when I pull the switch towards me and hold it but does not work when I click it away from me and leave it in the permanent position. I've been told that I need to replace the combination switch (also called multifunction switch). I'm wondering if I simply have a blown fuse. Wouldn't other functions be affected if the combination switch was the problem?

My car has 393000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Headlight is not working Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. The multifunction switch is not working and needs replaced. Check the fuses are good, but if the high beams works on the temporally side of the switch, then the fuse to the headlights is working. The switch has terminals inside it and when the high beams are not functional, then the terminals are damaged and not making a full connection. I recommend replacing the multifunction switch. If you need further assistance with your headlights not working, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

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

How do I install a booster seat in the passenger front seat?
It’s not recommended that you ever install a booster seat in the front passenger seat of your car. Children under 13 are safest in the back seat. However, if you have no choice, here’s how to do it safely. Move...
Cable harness worn
Depending on how much the harness was damaged, a replacement might be necessary. There could also be secondary damage from non-insulated wires touching each other after the harness was cut. If it was only a few wires, the harness might...
There is noise when I go over bumpy road or uneven road.the noise only happen when the car left around 5-6 hours before driving
Your front struts may be worn out or have bad strut insulators that need to be replaced. The struts have a gas charge in them that, if too low, will not work correct until the strut is warmed up from...
Can bad driving cause a bad throttle body?
Hi there - the dealer may be refusing to "certify" if because they can't be certain how it was maintained. This may or may not be a problem. A rental vehicle, especially a "working" vehicle like a Transit van, may...
My Mitsubishi Lancer 2005 has a limp mode issue - the car does not erase trouble codes permanently (even by debugging or terminal disconnection)
I see the note where you have previously replaced several components on the transmission already. Do you recall the brand and warranty of these components? If the parts you replaced are still under warranty, you may be able to get...
I have a 1999 expedition,how many catalytic converters would it have?
Since this vehicle has a v-shaped engine, there would be two Banks of exhaust. Typically for each Bank of exhaust there is one catalytic converter. Therefore there should be two catalytic converters total on the entire vehicle.
My 2013 Nissan Altima 3.5 sl has gotten stuck in park 3 times now. I'm unable to shift it into reverse. I have to push the little
The most common cause of this issue is a faulty shift interlock solenoid. The shift interlock solenoid lock the shifter unless the key is in the on position and the brake pedal is depressed. Many times you can hear a...
I was driving today an my car completely stopped in the middle of traffic my steering wheel locks up an battery dead
Hi Rebecca. Thanks for reaching out to us tonight. When a vehicle stalls and loses electrical power like you've described, it can be very tricky to diagnose, since there are so many possible sources. In many cases, this can be...

Related articles

What Are Rocker Switches and How Are They Used in Cars?
Every Every function inside your vehicle is controlled by a switch in some way. Some switches require a high current capacity, while others are low voltage. Low voltage switches usually control the electrical position of a relay, which directs a...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Turn Signal Switch
Common signs include the turn signal indicator continuing to blink when the steering wheel returns to the center and having to hold the lever down.
How Long Does a Clutch Switch Last?
The The clutch switch, also known as a clutch sensor, is a safety device on most modern manual transmission vehicles. Its purpose is to prevent the engine from starting while the vehicle is in gear. The switch is normally mounted...