2002 Escort ZX2

[khushsk]

Hi First, thanks in advance for any replies. My headlights flicker, and every time I turn on the right turn signal, my headlights go off. Also, my headlights seem to flicker at times, and I have to flick the switch around a bit to get it on again. I'm guessing my headlight switch is screwed up. I want to replace it myself, and I have the switch. But I have no idea how to do it. Help, please? (One of the estimates I got is $150, and I am a poor student in college)

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[FordMan59]

Originally Posted by khushsk

Hi

First, thanks in advance for any replies.
My headlights flicker, and every time I turn on the right turn signal, my headlights go off. Also, my headlights seem to flicker at times, and I have to flick the switch around a bit to get it on again.

I'm guessing my headlight switch is screwed up. I want to replace it myself, and I have the switch. But I have no idea how to do it.

Help, please?

(One of the estimates I got is $150, and I am a poor student in college)

It's probably the multi function switch turn signal/dimmer switch. I don't know what model your car is, but to replace it on my '88 Escort all you have to do is remove the cover on the steering column which exposes the switch. There's then 2 or 3 torx head screws that have to be removed, then just unplug it and put the new one in and replace the cover.

[khushsk]

Originally Posted by FordMan59

It's probably the multi function switch turn signal/dimmer switch. I don't know what model your car is, but to replace it on my '88 Escort all you have to do is remove the cover on the steering column which exposes the switch. There's then 2 or 3 torx head screws that have to be removed, then just unplug it and put the new one in and replace the cover.

Thanks! Mine's an '02 Escort ZX2. The mechanic we took it to today said it will be complicated because it has an SRS airbag. Not sure why it should be more complicated just because of SRS, but is that true?

[FordMan59]

Originally Posted by khushsk

Thanks! Mine's an '02 Escort ZX2. The mechanic we took it to today said it will be complicated because it has an SRS airbag. Not sure why it should be more complicated just because of SRS, but is that true?

Here's the instructions for '98-'99 ZX-2's according to my Chilton's manual. My manual doesn't go beyond '99, but the proceedure would probably be the same.

Caution: Some models covered by this manual are equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) which uses an air bag. Whenever working near any of the SRS components, such as the impact sensors, the air bag module, steering column and instrument panel, disable the SRS by disconnecting the negative battery cable.

(Removal)

1. On 1998-1999 coupe models, remover the steering wheel according to the appropriate proceedure.

2. Place tape on the air bag sliding contact to prevent it from moving.

3. Unfasten the lower steering column cover retaining screws and remove the upper and lower column covers.

4. Remove the combination switch retaining screws.

5. Unplug the combination switch electrical connectors.

6. Remove the switch.

(Installation)

7. Place the combination switch into position.

8. Attach the switch electrical connectors.

9. Install the switch retaining screws and tighten securely.

10. Install steering column covers and tighten the screws securely.

11. Remove the tape from the air bag sliding contact.

12. Install steering wheel and a new retaining bolt.

13. Connect the negative battery cable.

14. Confirm operational status of the air bag system by turning the ignition key to the run position and visually monitoring the air bag indicator lamp in the instrument cluster. The indicator lamp should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds and then turn off. If the indicator lamp does not illuminate, stays on, or flashes at any time, a fault has been detected by the air bag diagnostic monitor.

15. Check all combination switch functions for proper operation.