Plymouth Reliant Headlight Switch Replacement Guide (1981-1989)
If your Plymouth Reliant's headlights are flickering or failing, the switch on your dashboard is a likely cause.
- A failing headlight switch is a critical safety issue that can cause your lights to fail unexpectedly.
- Symptoms include flickering lights, total failure, and inoperative dash lights.
- New OEM parts are unavailable; a new aftermarket switch from a brand like Standard Ignition is the best option.
- This is a simple and inexpensive repair that most owners can perform themselves in under an hour.
Is Your Headlight Switch Failing? Common Symptoms
The headlight switch on an older car like the Plymouth Reliant handles the full electrical current for the lights. Over decades of use, the internal contacts can wear out, causing a poor connection. This can lead to several noticeable problems.
- Flickering Headlights: Lights that cut in and out while driving are a classic sign of a worn switch struggling to maintain a connection.
- Headlights Don't Turn On: You might pull the switch and get no response from your headlights or parking lights at all. This can be intermittent at first and become permanent over time.
- Dash Lights Malfunction: The part of the switch that controls the instrument panel lights can also fail. You might lose the ability to dim the dash lights, or they may not work at all.
- Only High or Low Beams Work: While sometimes related to the dimmer switch on the steering column, a faulty main headlight switch can also cause issues with selecting between high and low beams.
- Switch Feels Hot: A failing switch with high internal resistance can generate heat. If the knob or surrounding dash area feels warm to the touch, it's a serious warning sign.
Choosing a New Aftermarket Headlight Switch
For a vehicle like the 1981-1989 Reliant, finding a new original equipment (OEM) headlight switch from Mopar is no longer possible. The choice is between a used OEM part from a salvage yard or a new aftermarket part.
Given that this is a part that wears out over time, a new aftermarket switch is the recommended option. You get a brand-new component that should provide many years of reliable service, compared to a used part that may have a limited lifespan.
Aftermarket Brand Quality: Standard Ignition
Standard Motor Products (SMP), often sold as Standard Ignition, is a well-known and generally trusted brand for aftermarket electrical parts. Reviews and forum discussions for their switches are positive, with users often choosing them as a reliable replacement when original parts are discontinued. For the Plymouth Reliant, Standard Ignition is a solid and dependable choice.
Known Issues, Recalls, or Service Bulletins
There are no active recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Plymouth concerning the headlight switch for the 1981-1989 Reliant. Any issues you experience are most likely due to the normal wear and tear of a part that is over 30 years old.
Headlight Switch Replacement Cost
Replacing the headlight switch is an affordable repair. The primary cost is the part itself, with labor being minimal for a professional or free if you do it yourself.
| Option | Part Cost | Labor Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Replacement | $42.98 | $0 | $42.98 |
| Independent Shop | $42.98 | $55 - $110 | $97.98 - $152.98 |
Cost estimates are based on the provided part price and an estimated 0.5-1.0 hour of labor at a typical shop rate. Prices can vary by location and supplier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the headlight switch myself?
Yes, this is a very DIY-friendly job for most home mechanics. The process typically involves reaching under the dashboard to find a small spring-loaded button on the body of the switch. You press this button to release the knob and shaft, which pulls out from the front. Then you can unscrew the retaining nut, disconnect the wiring plug, and install the new switch.
Is the headlight switch the same as the dimmer switch?
No. The main headlight switch is on the dashboard. The dimmer switch, which selects between high and low beams, is usually part of the multi-function lever on the steering column or a foot-operated button on the floor in some older vehicles.
What happens if I don't replace a bad headlight switch?
A failing headlight switch is a safety hazard. It can lead to your headlights shutting off unexpectedly while driving at night, making you invisible to other drivers and unable to see the road. A switch that is overheating is also a potential fire risk.
Why do only my parking lights work?
The headlight switch has different contacts for the parking lights and the main headlights. It's common for the headlight contacts, which carry a higher electrical load, to fail first while the parking light contacts continue to work. This is a clear sign that the switch needs to be replaced.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: DS-357
Connector: 9-Terminal Blade
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Plymouth Reliant: