Problem with headlights

[timfsu2k]

Hey guys,

First post here, but I've been lurking for a while. Everyone seems very knowledgeable so figured I'd put this problem to this forum:

I have a '92 Corolla DX and about three weeks ago my headlights quit working. The running lights still work, it's just the headlights that are a no go. After troubleshooting and replacing a few things (fuses, bulbs) and checking wiring harness and relay I've come to the conclusion that the problem is the combo switch in the steering column. I must add that before the headlights completely quit, my bright lights would not come on when activated. The lights simply went dark. Now, is the switch a reasonable possibility?

Also, I have always been under the assumption that my Corolla does not have an airbag. Am I correct?

Thanks in advance, and looking forward to becoming an active member here.

Tim

[Createdtoburn]

My 89 GTS doesnt have air bags. It's pretty easy to tell if your car does or not. Pull the steering wheel cover off and check :-p But yeah it's probably your light switch. These old corollas have weird switch problems, I tried forever to fix a few of the lock/window switches seeing nothing wrong until giving up and replacing them. Don't waste your time trying to figure it out just replace it if you think that's what it is lol.

[ericdude]

Ok, it sound like you already traced it to isolate the column switch; if not you can read the below:

If I recall, the headlights work through a relay. I.e., the column switch energizes the relay,
and the relay closes the high amperage circuit actually driving the lights. Given that, you
could try directly jumping the circuit normally closed by the relay with heavy gauge wire.

If you get your lights back, then either the relay or column switch is dead.

[REN69]

Check the bulbs again, if I'm not mistaken the running lights run off the high beams, so if the low beam filaments are burnt of course the high beam running lights would still work.

Not sure if the combo switch is a problem on these cars, but I'm sure you could also replace that by buying another piece from the junkyard.

Also the relays/fuses in the engine compartment, check those.