Headlight Switch

This procedure removes and replaces the headlight switch assembly in a 2005 Dodge Viper, requiring driver's side lower dash trim removal to access the switch mounted in the instrument panel.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Mopar 56010729AB or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake.
2. Turn headlight switch to OFF position and remove ignition key.
3. Disconnect battery negative terminal to prevent electrical shorts.
4. Wait at least 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge.
5. Adjust steering column to lowest position and fully extended to maximize working room.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove driver's side knee bolster
   Locate the lower trim panel beneath the steering column (knee bolster). Remove the fasteners securing the panel—typically there are panel clips along the top edge and threaded fasteners at the bottom corners. Use a trim tool to carefully release the clips starting from one side, then pull the panel downward and away from the dash to remove. Set aside with hardware.
2. 2

   Remove lower instrument panel end cap
   At the driver's side end of the instrument panel (where the dash meets the door), locate the small trim end cap. This piece wraps around the side of the dash. Release the retaining clips by pulling gently outward from the rear edge. The cap should pop free. Set aside for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Access headlight switch mounting area
   With the knee bolster and end cap removed, you should now have clear access to the left side of the instrument panel bezel and the headlight switch location. The switch is mounted to the left of the steering column in the main instrument panel fascia. Use your flashlight to identify the switch housing and verify access to its mounting tabs.
4. 4

   Disconnect headlight switch electrical connector
   Reach behind the headlight switch assembly and locate the main electrical connector. Depress the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight back to disconnect it from the switch. If access is tight, you may need to partially rotate the switch in its mounting location first (next step) to create clearance for the connector.
5. 5

   Remove headlight switch from instrument panel
   The headlight switch is retained by a twist-lock mechanism or mounting tabs. Rotate the switch counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn (or as required until it releases from the locked position), then pull the switch assembly straight out toward the rear of the vehicle. If you haven't already disconnected the electrical connector, do so now as the switch clears the panel. Remove the switch from the vehicle.
6. 6

   Install new headlight switch
   Connect the electrical connector to the new headlight switch assembly, ensuring the locking tab clicks into place. Insert the switch into the instrument panel opening, aligning the mounting tabs with their slots. Push the switch fully into position, then rotate clockwise approximately 1/4 turn until it locks into place. Verify the switch is secure and flush with the surrounding trim.
7. 7

   Reinstall lower instrument panel end cap
   Position the driver's side end cap onto the edge of the instrument panel. Align the retaining clips with their receptacles and press firmly until all clips engage and the cap is flush with the dash surface.
8. 8

   Reinstall driver's side knee bolster
   Position the knee bolster trim panel beneath the steering column, aligning the mounting points. Press the top edge upward to engage the retaining clips, then install and tighten the threaded fasteners at the bottom corners. Ensure the panel is secure and all gaps are even.
9. 9

   Reconnect battery and test system
   Reconnect the battery negative terminal. Turn the ignition key to the ON position (engine off) and test all headlight switch functions: OFF, parking lights, and headlights (and fog lights if equipped). Verify the instrument panel illumination dims properly with the dimmer function. Cycle through all positions multiple times to confirm proper operation.

Reassembly

1. All trim panels should fit flush with no gaps or misaligned edges.
2. Ensure all trim clips are fully seated to prevent rattles.
3. Verify headlight switch knob operates smoothly through all detent positions without binding.

Verification

• Test headlight switch in all positions with engine running: OFF, parking lights, and headlights should all function correctly.
• Verify instrument panel dimmer function operates smoothly across its full range.
• Check that fog lights (if equipped) activate properly with the headlight switch in the appropriate position.
• Confirm no dashboard warning lights remain illuminated related to lighting systems.
• Inspect all reinstalled trim panels for proper fit and secure mounting with no rattles.

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle