'95 LX, headlights don't automatically turn off anymore

[Heat]

My headlights no longer automatically turn off when I open the driver's door with the key turned off (or out of the ignition). Any idea why?

This is what is no longer happening, from page 51 of the 1995 Owner's Manual:

...The [headlights] automatically turn off when the driver's door is opened with the ignition turned off. To turn them on again, turn the key to the "ON" position or actuate the headlight switch. If you are going to park for one week make sure the headlight switch is off.

Of course I can manually turn off the headlights each time I get out of the car but I do miss having them turn off automatically.

Thanks!

[xtremeskier97]

Does your dome light and door light work when the drivers door is opened?

If not...pull the door switch out and check the connections. My door light is intermittent...and sometimes my lights dont go out like yours. My door switch has probably got some loose connections or something.

[Mike Gerber]

I think extremeskier97 is correct. It sounds like your door open switch (actually a button) is stuck in the closed (button in) position. These switches can cause problems on the generation 3 Camrys, but are easy to fix. Open the door. You will see a rubber boot covering the switch on the pillar between the front and rear doors. Lift the boot from the bottom, exposing a 10MM hex head bolt. Remove the bolt and pull the switch out just a bit. Be carefull not to pull it out too far. You don't want to break or disconnect the wiring to it. Chances are the switch and spring combination is rusty. Clean all of this up with a small wire brush. Make it shinny clean if possible. Now add some dielectric grease if you have some to keep it from rusting again. Vasoline will work in a pinch, but dielectric grease is better. Also clean the threads of the screw shinny clean, as that is what grounds the switch to the frame. Put the switch back in and tighten the bolt. Chances are your problem will be solved. This whole procedure should take about 10-15 minutes.

Mike