'97 Avalon strange flickering headlights

[tnjohn]

With only 38,000 miles on my Avalon, I want to keep it a while longer, but it's finally come down with literally it's first problem since I bought the car. (not counting the noisy shocks which dealer never would fix, just lubed them up)

When, and -only- when, speed gets to 50+ miles per hour the headlights will start flickering. May start at 50, or 60 or 70, but NEVER below. The flicker definitely has a pattern, 5 - 6 rapid flickers, then brief pause, then repeat. If you slow down to 45-ish the flicker stops completely. Also flicker does not seem to be affected, or caused by, bumps, etc. They have no effect on starting, stopping, or pattern change.

No other lighting does it that I can tell.

Had extended warrany when it started last month but dealer could not find a problem. Said it was probably the battery that they had put in two years earlier, replaced it. No go. Now out of warranty.

Any thoughts, or possibly advice on a good electrical shop in Houston?

Thanks for any help!

John

[tnjohn]

Just one bumpety bump in case one of the electric wizards missed this.

Thank you very much!

John

[BLUEMEANIE]

...thats a tough one...

free bump.

[epborden]

This is a common accurance for Avalon's. I have heard a lot of stories about the "flickering lights" issue. If I am not mistaken I think this was a recall, so check with Toyota (a dealership) to see if you can get the problem fixed or replaced for free. There aren't a lot of Avalon owners around here unfortunately although the car is supported because it is Toyota. Try to search TN for some more information, or elsewhere on the net.

Good luck buddy

[Chenfucious]

well i can tell u that the gen 3 avalon doesnt have that problem..96 anyways

[tnjohn]

Thanks for the replies, much appreciated.

I also tried pulling out and reseating all fuses under the hood, checked obvious wiring, battery ground. Then thought since it's doing it at speed, maybe the -wind- is actually blowing something and causing flicker! Strange but hey, so I duct taped tight all the headlight wiring harnesses.

No luck, started flickering this morning at 65 mph, stopped at 55 when I exited the freeway. Also tried reving engine up to 3500 in park to see if it was 'revolution' based, but lights were steady as a rock.

I've searched this site and Googled everywhere, but can't find any reference to a service bulletin or recall.

Guess I'm going to have to eat crow and go back to the dealer and let them have their way with me. But I'm sure they'll get it fixed once my charge card is maxxed out. :ugh:

Again thanks to all that responded, this is a great forum!

John