Headlight Switch

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the headlight switch assembly on the driver's side dashboard of a 2007-2013 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — A2219057300 or A2219057400 depending on configuration
• Trim panel clips (if broken during removal) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key from ignition
3. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 5 minutes to allow modules to enter sleep mode
4. Open driver's door and leave it open throughout the procedure
5. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent module errors during switch replacement
6. Wait 10 minutes after battery disconnection for capacitors to discharge

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower dashboard trim panel
   Locate the lower dashboard trim panel beneath the steering column. Remove two T25 Torx screws at the bottom edge. Using trim removal tools, carefully release the upper clips by pulling gently outward. Support the panel as you disconnect the hood release cable by sliding the cable end out of its bracket. Set panel aside.
2. 2

   Remove driver's side knee bolster
   With lower trim removed, locate three T30 Torx screws securing the knee bolster panel above the pedals. Remove these screws and carefully pull the bolster away from the dashboard. There are no electrical connections on this panel. Set aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove instrument cluster trim bezel
   Insert trim removal tool at the left edge of the instrument cluster bezel (the trim surrounding the gauge cluster). Work around the perimeter, releasing clips at 2-inch intervals. The bezel has approximately 8-10 clips. Once all clips are released, pull the bezel forward approximately 2 inches but do not remove completely.
4. 4

   Disconnect bezel electrical connections
   Reach behind the instrument cluster bezel and locate two electrical connectors: one for the light sensor (small 3-pin connector at top center) and one for the headlight switch (larger multi-pin connector at left side). Press the release tabs on each connector and carefully disconnect. Remove bezel completely and set aside.
5. 5

   Remove headlight switch mounting screws
   With the bezel removed, the headlight switch assembly is now accessible from behind. Locate two T20 Torx screws securing the switch housing to the dashboard structure. These screws are accessed from behind the dash opening. Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Extract headlight switch assembly
   Gently pull the headlight switch forward from its mounting position. The switch rotary control knob will pull through the bezel opening. If the switch binds, verify both mounting screws are fully removed. Once free, maneuver the switch assembly out through the instrument cluster opening.
7. 7

   Inspect and prepare new switch
   Compare the old switch with the new replacement to verify correct part. Check that the electrical connector on the new switch matches the old unit. Inspect the connector pins on the vehicle harness for corrosion or damage. If needed, spray electrical contact cleaner into the harness connector and allow to dry completely before proceeding.
8. 8

   Install new headlight switch
   Insert the new headlight switch assembly through the instrument cluster opening, feeding the rotary control knob through the bezel mounting hole. Align the switch housing with the two mounting screw holes in the dashboard structure. Hand-thread both T20 Torx mounting screws, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connections
   Connect the main headlight switch connector to the back of the new switch assembly. Push firmly until the connector clicks into place. Then connect the light sensor connector (smaller 3-pin) to the appropriate location on the instrument cluster bezel if it was separated during removal. Ensure both connections are secure.
10. 10

    Reinstall instrument cluster bezel
    Position the instrument cluster bezel with connectors attached. Align all clips with their corresponding slots in the dashboard. Starting at the bottom center, press firmly around the perimeter until all clips snap into place. Verify the bezel is flush and properly seated all around.
11. 11

    Reinstall knee bolster and lower trim
    Replace the knee bolster panel, aligning the mounting holes. Install the three T30 Torx screws and tighten to specification. Reconnect the hood release cable to its bracket on the lower trim panel. Position the lower trim and press to engage clips, then install the two T25 Torx screws at the bottom edge.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and initialize
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to specification. Turn the ignition to position II (without starting) and verify that the instrument cluster illuminates. Cycle the headlight switch through all positions (off, parking lights, low beams, auto if equipped) to verify proper operation.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are properly seated with no gaps or misalignment
2. Verify all Torx screws are installed and tightened to specified torque values
3. Check that hood release cable operates smoothly after lower trim reinstallation
4. Confirm no rattles or loose panels by gently pressing on all reinstalled trim pieces

Verification

• Turn ignition to position II and verify instrument cluster illumination
• Rotate headlight switch through all positions: off, parking lights, low beams, and auto (if equipped)
• With engine running, verify daytime running lights operate correctly
• Test automatic headlight function (if equipped) by covering the light sensor at top of dash
• Verify turn signal indicator lights function properly in instrument cluster
• Check that all dashboard illumination dims correctly using the dimmer control
• Ensure no warning lights or fault codes are displayed related to lighting system
• Test fog light switches (if equipped) to verify full functionality of the switch assembly

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