Headlight Switch

This procedure removes and replaces the headlight switch assembly on a 2008 Dodge Viper, accessed from behind the instrument panel.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Mopar 56010680AB or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery cable and wait 2 minutes
3. Ensure steering wheel is in the straight-ahead position
4. Allow interior to cool if vehicle has been in sunlight (dashboard components may be hot)

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove knee bolster panel
   Locate the knee bolster panel below the steering column. Remove the fasteners securing the panel (typically 3-4 screws along the bottom edge). Carefully pull the panel away from the dash structure and set aside. The panel may have clips in addition to fasteners, so work slowly to avoid breakage.
2. 2

   Remove lower instrument panel trim
   Remove the lower instrument panel trim piece that surrounds the headlight switch area on the driver's side. This trim piece is secured by a combination of screws and push clips. Remove visible screws first, then use trim panel tools to release the clips working from the edges inward. Disconnect any courtesy lamp connectors if present before fully removing the trim.
3. 3

   Access headlight switch mounting area
   With the lower trim removed, identify the headlight switch assembly behind the instrument panel. You may need to use a flashlight to see the mounting fasteners clearly. The switch is typically mounted to a bracket or directly to the instrument panel structure.
4. 4

   Disconnect headlight switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the rear of the headlight switch assembly. Depress the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight away from the switch. If access is tight, use needle-nose pliers to reach the locking tab. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself.
5. 5

   Remove headlight switch mounting fasteners
   Remove the 2 screws or bolts securing the headlight switch to its mounting bracket or instrument panel. These fasteners are typically metric socket head screws. Support the switch as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from dropping into the dash cavity.
6. 6

   Remove headlight switch assembly
   Carefully withdraw the headlight switch assembly from its mounting location. You may need to rotate or angle the switch slightly to clear surrounding structure. Note the orientation of the switch for installation of the replacement unit.
7. 7

   Install new headlight switch assembly
   Position the new headlight switch assembly in the mounting location, ensuring it is oriented correctly with the knob or switch actuator facing outward toward the driver. Align the mounting holes with the bracket or panel structure.
8. 8

   Install headlight switch mounting fasteners
   Install the 2 mounting screws or bolts and tighten them securely. Do not overtighten as you may crack the switch housing or strip the threads in the mounting bracket.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the electrical connector firmly onto the rear of the new headlight switch until you hear or feel the locking tab engage. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall lower instrument panel trim
    Position the lower instrument panel trim piece and reconnect any courtesy lamp connectors. Align the trim with the dash structure and press the clips into place. Install all screws and verify the trim is seated properly with no gaps.
11. 11

    Reinstall knee bolster panel
    Position the knee bolster panel below the steering column and install all fasteners. Ensure the panel is properly aligned and seated against the dash structure before tightening the screws.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery cable
2. Verify all trim panels are properly seated and secured
3. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the dash cavity

Verification

• Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off) and test all headlight switch positions: parking lamps, headlamps, and high beams
• Verify the instrument panel illumination dimmer function operates correctly if integrated with the headlight switch
• Test the auto-off function if equipped by turning off the ignition with lights on and verifying they turn off
• Check that all dash trim panels are secure with no rattles or loose sections

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