This procedure covers removal and replacement of the headlight switch assembly located in the instrument panel on the driver's side of a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM Ford specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Open driver's door and leave open for access
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower instrument panel cover
   Locate the lower dash panel below the steering column. Use trim panel tools to carefully release the retaining clips around the perimeter. Start at the bottom edge and work upward. Gently pull the panel away from the dash and set aside.
2. 2

   Remove driver's side knee bolster
   Locate the knee bolster panel directly above the lower cover. Remove the two 10mm bolts at the top edge. Release the retaining clips using trim tools and carefully pull the bolster panel toward you to disengage. Disconnect any electrical connectors if equipped (some models have hood release illumination).
3. 3

   Access headlight switch from behind panel
   With the knee bolster removed, you now have access to the backside of the instrument panel. Locate the headlight switch assembly from behind. Use a work light to improve visibility in the cramped space behind the dash.
4. 4

   Disconnect headlight switch electrical connector
   Reach behind the switch assembly and locate the main electrical connector. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull it straight back away from the switch. You may need to work by feel in the confined space. Do not force - verify the release tab is fully depressed before pulling.
5. 5

   Remove headlight switch mounting screws
   Locate the two mounting screws securing the headlight switch to the instrument panel. These are typically Phillips head screws accessible from behind the panel. Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Extract headlight switch from instrument panel
   From the front of the dash, carefully pull the headlight switch assembly straight out toward the driver's seat. It should slide out of the panel opening once the mounting screws are removed. If resistance is felt, verify all fasteners are removed and nothing is catching.
7. 7

   Install new headlight switch assembly
   Position the new headlight switch in the instrument panel opening from the front. Align the mounting holes and ensure the switch body is seated flush with the panel face. The control knob should operate smoothly through its full range of motion.
8. 8

   Secure headlight switch with mounting screws
   From behind the panel, install the two mounting screws through the switch mounting holes. Tighten the screws evenly to avoid cocking the switch in the panel. Screws should be snug but do not overtighten as this can crack the switch housing.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Push the main electrical connector firmly onto the back of the headlight switch until you hear or feel a positive click. Verify the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to confirm it is locked in place.
10. 10

    Reinstall knee bolster panel
    Reconnect any electrical connectors to the knee bolster if present. Align the panel with the mounting locations and push firmly to engage the retaining clips. Install the two 10mm mounting bolts at the top edge and tighten securely.
11. 11

    Reinstall lower instrument panel cover
    Position the lower dash panel and align with the mounting clips. Starting at the top, press firmly around the perimeter to engage all retaining clips. Work your way down until all clips are fully seated and the panel is flush with surrounding trim.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to specification. Close the driver's door. Turn the ignition to the ON position (engine off) and test all headlight switch functions including off, parking lights, headlights, and auto mode if equipped.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all trim panels are properly secured with no loose clips or gaps
2. Reset clock and radio presets as needed after battery reconnection
3. Ensure headlight switch rotates smoothly without binding through full range

Verification

• Turn headlight switch through all positions and verify corresponding lights illuminate correctly
• Test automatic headlight function if equipped by covering the light sensor on top of dash
• Verify instrument panel illumination dimmer function works properly
• Check that fog lights operate correctly if vehicle is equipped
• Confirm no dashboard warning lights related to lighting system remain illuminated

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