Headlight Switch

Procedure to remove and replace the headlight switch assembly in a 1992 Dodge Viper, including dashboard access and electrical connector service.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Mopar 56007174 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
2. Disconnect battery negative terminal to prevent electrical shorts and allow airbag system to discharge (wait minimum 2 minutes).
3. Allow interior to cool if vehicle has been in direct sunlight to prevent burns from metal trim components.
4. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning disassembly.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower dashboard knee bolster
   Locate the lower knee bolster panel beneath the steering column. Remove the Phillips screws securing the panel (typically 3-4 screws along the top edge and sides). Gently pull the panel down and away from the dashboard to release any remaining clips. Set the panel aside in a safe location.
2. 2

   Access headlight switch mounting area
   With the knee bolster removed, identify the headlight switch assembly to the left of the steering column. Use a flashlight to illuminate the area behind the switch and locate the mounting hardware and electrical connector. The switch is typically recessed into the instrument panel bezel.
3. 3

   Disconnect headlight switch electrical connector
   Reach behind the headlight switch and locate the main electrical connector. Depress the locking tab on the connector while gently pulling it straight back away from the switch. If connector is difficult to access, you may need to remove the instrument panel bezel for better access. Do not force the connector; ensure the locking tab is fully released before pulling.
4. 4

   Remove instrument panel bezel (if required)
   If access to the switch mounting hardware is restricted, remove the instrument panel bezel surrounding the switch. Remove the Phillips screws securing the bezel (check around the perimeter of the bezel for fasteners). Gently pull the bezel forward, working around the edges to release any retaining clips. Tilt the bezel to clear the steering column and set aside.
5. 5

   Remove headlight switch mounting fasteners
   Locate the switch mounting screws or retaining hardware. Remove the mounting fasteners (typically 2 Phillips screws or a retaining nut accessed from behind). Keep track of all hardware for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Extract headlight switch from panel
   With mounting fasteners removed, carefully pull the headlight switch assembly forward and out of the instrument panel opening. Maneuver the switch body and attached connector through the opening. If the switch binds, verify all mounting hardware has been removed and that no wiring is caught behind the panel.
7. 7

   Inspect connector and wiring
   Examine the electrical connector terminals for corrosion, heat damage, or bent pins. Check the wiring harness for chafing or damage. Clean connector terminals with electrical contact cleaner if necessary. Inspect the instrument panel opening for any debris or damage that could interfere with the new switch installation.
8. 8

   Install new headlight switch assembly
   Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical connector terminals on the new switch (optional but recommended). Insert the switch assembly into the instrument panel opening, ensuring the switch body is properly oriented with the shaft or knob in the correct position. Align the mounting holes with the panel.
9. 9

   Secure switch mounting fasteners
   Install the switch mounting fasteners and tighten securely by hand. Do not overtighten plastic-mounted screws as this can crack the bezel or switch housing. Ensure the switch is seated flush with the panel and operates smoothly through its full range of motion before proceeding.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align the electrical connector with the switch terminals and push firmly until you hear or feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
11. 11

    Reinstall instrument panel bezel (if removed)
    If the bezel was removed, position it over the steering column and align it with the dashboard opening. Press firmly around the perimeter to engage all retaining clips. Install and tighten the bezel mounting screws to secure. Verify the bezel is flush and properly seated.
12. 12

    Reinstall lower knee bolster
    Position the knee bolster panel beneath the steering column, engaging any alignment clips first. Install the mounting screws and tighten securely. Ensure the panel sits flush with the surrounding dashboard trim.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and test system
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to specification. Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off) and test the headlight switch through all positions: off, parking lights, and headlights. Verify the instrument panel lighting dimmer function operates correctly (if integrated into switch). Check that all lighting functions work properly.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reassembly is performed in reverse order of disassembly.
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked before reinstalling trim panels.
3. Verify the headlight switch operates smoothly through its full range before closing up the dashboard.
4. Do not overtighten trim panel screws on aged plastic components.

Verification

• With ignition ON, verify headlight switch operates through all positions: OFF, parking lights, and headlights.
• Test instrument panel dimmer function (if integrated into switch) through full range.
• Verify dashboard warning lights illuminate normally with ignition ON and extinguish as expected.
• Check that all exterior lighting (headlights, parking lights, side markers) functions correctly in each switch position.
• Ensure no dashboard warning lights remain illuminated indicating electrical faults.
• Verify all removed trim panels are secure and properly aligned.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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