Tuesday, December 3, 2013
How to Replace the Headlight Switch on a 2001 F150
In a perfect world, cars, trucks, and automotive components would last forever. But theres a delicate balance between cost and longevity, so vehicle manufacturers constantly push the engineering envelope as it relates to doing more with less. Although the headlight switch for your 2001 Ford F-150 is considered an electrical component, its mechanical aspect is susceptible to normal wear and tear after years of regular use. Replacing the defective headlight switch is easy, requiring minimal hand tools to get the job done.
Instructions
- 1
Connect a memory saver device to the vehicle, according to the products specific instructions. Although not absolutely needed to replace the headlight switch, using a memory saver will avoid short-term drivability issues after reconnecting the negative battery cable, in addition to saving you the hassle of reprogramming the vehicles stereo and other programmable features that depend on constant battery power. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery cable with a socket and ratchet.
2Insert a thin, non-marring plastic pry tool into the gap between the bottom right corner of the headlight switch assembly and the instrument panel trim. Carefully pry the assembly from the instrument panel. Disengage the locking tabs for the electrical connectors and then disconnect the connectors from the switch assembly.
3Connect the electrical connectors to the replacement switch, then press-fit the assembly to the instrument panel. Make sure the new switch is in the off position. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery, then tighten the clamp. Use a flat-head screwdriver to spread the battery cable clamp, if necessary. Never attempt to pound or hammer a tight battery clamp onto a battery post.
4Disconnect the memory saver device from the vehicle. Test the headlamp switch to complete the replacement process.
