2003 Headlight Switch Replacement

[nicholson2003Tbird]

Good Day to all Tbird members,

This is my first post, and I hope to receive some feedback.

How do you remove this panel without breaking the tabs, to remove?
Do you push down or out on the tabs etc.

MODERATOR NOTE: Purchase the switch here-

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[Rust]

Here are some directions in this related thread:

Power mirror switch 2003 replacement

Replacing the power mirror switch, I have removed lower panel under steering wheel with no problem. Stuck now on how to remove the chrome vertical panel that surround the lights and PW switch. How does it get removed ..

forums.fordthunderbirdforum.com

 

[Frankie the Fink]

Very easy - get yourself some trim removal tools and carefully pry that trim piece loose but just be aware that ther are electrical connectors attached to it: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R44VJHN/?tag=thunderbirdforum-20

 

[Deputy JJG]

Plastic trim removal tools are the best investment one can make. I have used mine for all kinds of jobs. They are not expensive either. Good luck with your endeavors. JJG

 

[Jonesboy]

Hi all. I am looking for a headlight switch for my 2003 T-Bird.

 

[biddle]

Hi all. I am looking for a headlight switch for my 2003 T-Bird.

Purchase here-

SW-5530 motorcraft for sale | eBay

Get the best deals for SW-5530 motorcraft at eBay.com. We have a great online selection at the lowest prices with Fast & Free shipping on many items!

ebay.us

 

[markriggin]

I just bought a 2004 t bird. When I turn the headlight switch to “auto” the lights come on and do not shut off in daylight. All other functions of the headlight switch work fine. Is it the switch or the front FEM?

 

[doug7740]

Where do you have the autolamp control set to? The farther counter clockwise you have the autolamp control set, the longer the headlamps will stay illuminated. When the autolamp control set is set fully counter clockwise, the headlamps can stay on for up to three minutes.

Problems caused by a defective FEM are; dash illumination problems (including no shifter light), head lights not working, front turn signal problems, driver’s side window not dropping when the door opens, no wipers, no horn, the oil light is on, the convertible top not working properly, the power steering is stiff with code C1925 or a shift interlock malfunction.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue

 

[markriggin]

The auto light setting is at the lowest setting. I drove for 4 hours with the switch at the lowest setting and headlights were on entire time during daylight. I have the same switch on a 2004 Crown Vic. It works as you described. The T Bird just never cycles off unless I turn it to the off position.

So based on your description of symptoms of a failing FEM I may have a bad headlight switch? Maybe?

 

[doug7740]

The autolamps are controlled by the headlamp switch, autolamp sensor, instrument cluster, FEM and REM. When the headlamp switch is in the autolamp position, the instrument cluster sends an on or off command to the FEM and REM, depending on the signal from the autolamp sensor. The FEM and REM process this information and output the appropriate command to the headlamps and parking lamps.

Unless your autolamp sensor is covered up by something, it looks like your autolamp sensor may be defective.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue