2001 V70 T5 - Intermitent Light Switch Problem

[tims]

Would be grateful of help on the following (2001 V70 T5 Auto - 130k miles):

I have an intermitent fault where I cannot switch the lights on (fortunately daytime running lights do work).

The 3 position switch on the dash is normally left in the upright position - i.e. lights on. However, from time-to-time when I start the car the 3 position switch does not seem to energise, and thus I cannot engage high beam/brights - only the flash function works (as per DRL). Oddly, this doesn't change throughout the journey and regardless of moving the switch it will stay 'dead' until at least the next time the car is started (so seems unlikely to be a loose connection in the switch as vibration from driving would potentially re-energise?).

I have tried pausing between I, II and III on the ignition and moving the key (gently) in the ignition, but it seems entirely random as to whether the switch works or not.

When the switch is 'dead' the car operates fully as if it were in the '0' position - plus dash lights are dim, headlight adjustment doesn't work, fog lights don't work, dash dimmer doesn't work. When the switch does energise, all functions within the switch unit seem to operate correctly.

I have no messages in the computer (alarm service does come up but no orange triangle lit). Also, everything else in the car seems to be working as normal. The only thing that is not functioning as per the factory is that the bulb(s?) are out behind the climate control panel (so only the switch lights are on).

Has anyone experienced this before or know sufficient detail of the wiring logic to understand what might be the problem? Would really appreciate some help! Thanks, Tim (UK)

[jda2000]

what happens when the switch is left at the "0".

I suspect you need a new switch. (you may try a used one from the wreckyard)

[tims]

With the switch in '0', the symptons are exactly the same as the other switch positions:
-Radio display is virtually illegible,
-Dash lights are dim,
-Can't turn the foglights on,
-Can't adjust the headlamp angle,
-Dash dimmer doesn't work,
-Can't set full beam.

If I do need a new switch, how do I remove the old one? There are no obvious fixings.

Thanks.

Tim