Headlight Switch

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the headlight switch assembly on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF and remove key or press stop button
3. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 2 minutes to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge
4. Open driver's door and lower driver's window to maintain interior lighting access

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect battery negative terminal
   Open the hood and locate the battery in the engine compartment. Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt and remove the cable from the battery post. Secure the cable away from the terminal to prevent accidental reconnection.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove lower dashboard trim panel
   Locate the lower dashboard trim panel beneath the steering column. Use a panel removal tool to carefully release the retaining clips starting from the bottom edge and working upward. Gently pull the panel away from the dashboard and set aside.
3. 3

   Remove driver's side knee bolster
   Identify the knee bolster panel directly above the lower trim. Remove the Phillips screws securing the knee bolster (typically 2-3 screws). Carefully pull the bolster forward to release the remaining clips and remove it from the vehicle.
4. 4

   Remove steering column covers
   Locate the upper and lower steering column covers. Remove the Phillips screws at the bottom of the lower cover. Separate the lower cover first, then remove the upper cover by releasing the retaining tabs at the rear. Set both covers aside.
5. 5

   Access headlight switch module
   With the steering column covers removed, identify the headlight switch module on the left side of the steering column. You should now have clear access to the module mounting points and electrical connector.
6. 6

   Disconnect headlight switch electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the rear of the headlight switch module. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull it straight back to disconnect. Do not pull on the wires themselves.
7. 7

   Remove headlight switch mounting screws
   Locate the two Phillips screws securing the headlight switch to the steering column bracket. Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation. Carefully pull the switch assembly away from the column.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Install new headlight switch
   Position the new headlight switch assembly onto the steering column bracket, aligning the mounting holes. Install the two mounting screws and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the switch is properly seated before final tightening.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the headlight switch terminals and push firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab engage. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover onto the column and align the rear tabs. Install the lower cover and ensure all clips are properly engaged. Reinstall the Phillips screws at the bottom and tighten securely.
11. 11

    Reinstall knee bolster and lower trim
    Position the knee bolster panel and press firmly to engage the retaining clips. Install the Phillips screws and tighten securely. Reinstall the lower dashboard trim panel by aligning the clips and pressing firmly until all clips engage.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery
    Return to the engine compartment and reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery post.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all dashboard trim panels are properly seated with all clips fully engaged
2. Verify no tools or parts were left in the dashboard area
3. Check that all screws were reinstalled and tightened properly

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine
• Test headlight switch in all positions: OFF, parking lights, low beams, high beams, and AUTO if equipped
• Verify dashboard illumination controls work properly with the headlight switch
• Test turn signal stalk operation to ensure no interference with new switch
• Check for any warning lights on the instrument cluster related to lighting systems
• Initialize power windows if necessary by fully lowering and raising each window while holding the switch
• Reset radio presets and clock as needed

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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