Question regarding the load reduction relay, ignition switch, and the bad headlight switch issue.
09-18-2006, 05:43 PM
#1
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Question regarding the load reduction relay, ignition switch, and the bad headlight switch issue.
Did a bit of searching around on the forum and I can't come to a conclusion as to why things aren't working on the car.
<b>Non-functional:</b>
-Headlights/high-beams
-blower/fan (the AC display keeps going up and down, but no air)
-Fog lights (duh)
-Turn signals (but hazards work)
-Dash temp/tranny display (non-trip computer)
<b>Functional:</b>
-Parking lights
-High-beams (when pulling on the stalk to flash)
-Radio (concert)
-Hazard blinkers
-Rest of dashboard lighting
After searching, I've found a three likely culprits.
First, the load reduction relay mentioned <a href="https://forums.audiworld.com/a4/msgs/2494491.phtml">here</a>. But, when this relay malfunctions, the headlights aren't affected.
Soooo...
Second, the ignition switch mentioned <a href="https://www.audiworld.com/tech/elec91.shtml"> here</a>. But the tech article doesn't mention common symptoms and a search through the archives only points to a sticking key that doesn't rotate correctly back to the 'on' position, which mine isn't doing. Heck, the car starts fine. So what exactly would a faulty ignition switch cause?
AND...
Third, maybe it's a combination of the load reduction relay + a bad headlight switch mentioned in <a href="https://forums.audiworld.com/a4/msgs/2314120.phtml"> here</a>.
Anyone have any suggestions? I'm gonna run out and try to fix the headlight switch in a bit since I work until dusk tomorrow night, which means headlights are a good idea. But, as far as the switch and relay, if they are in need of replacement, I'd have to make time to visit the VW dealership tomorrow. :-\
<b>Non-functional:</b>
-Headlights/high-beams
-blower/fan (the AC display keeps going up and down, but no air)
-Fog lights (duh)
-Turn signals (but hazards work)
-Dash temp/tranny display (non-trip computer)
<b>Functional:</b>
-Parking lights
-High-beams (when pulling on the stalk to flash)
-Radio (concert)
-Hazard blinkers
-Rest of dashboard lighting
After searching, I've found a three likely culprits.
First, the load reduction relay mentioned <a href="https://forums.audiworld.com/a4/msgs/2494491.phtml">here</a>. But, when this relay malfunctions, the headlights aren't affected.
Soooo...
Second, the ignition switch mentioned <a href="https://www.audiworld.com/tech/elec91.shtml"> here</a>. But the tech article doesn't mention common symptoms and a search through the archives only points to a sticking key that doesn't rotate correctly back to the 'on' position, which mine isn't doing. Heck, the car starts fine. So what exactly would a faulty ignition switch cause?
AND...
Third, maybe it's a combination of the load reduction relay + a bad headlight switch mentioned in <a href="https://forums.audiworld.com/a4/msgs/2314120.phtml"> here</a>.
Anyone have any suggestions? I'm gonna run out and try to fix the headlight switch in a bit since I work until dusk tomorrow night, which means headlights are a good idea. But, as far as the switch and relay, if they are in need of replacement, I'd have to make time to visit the VW dealership tomorrow. :-\
09-18-2006, 06:26 PM
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if it was your ignition switch, your starter might not stop turning or
the key would not return to ACC. You could possibly have climate control/light issues because of the switch.
09-19-2006, 06:21 AM
#6
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Only the end of one of the plugs look a bit burnt...
Maybe that's it.
<img src="http://www.wickedjack.com/`misc/arelay2.jpg">
<img src="http://www.wickedjack.com/`misc/arelay3.jpg">
<img src="http://www.wickedjack.com/`misc/arelay4.jpg">
You can see the burned-looking plug quite well from this picture. Hopefully that means something's fuxored inside and that replacing it will solve these problems. :-\
<img src="http://www.wickedjack.com/`misc/arelay2.jpg">
<img src="http://www.wickedjack.com/`misc/arelay3.jpg">
<img src="http://www.wickedjack.com/`misc/arelay4.jpg">
You can see the burned-looking plug quite well from this picture. Hopefully that means something's fuxored inside and that replacing it will solve these problems. :-\
09-19-2006, 06:56 AM
#7
if you open it up you'll see its a molten glob.
<ul><li><a href="http://www.modifieda4.com/gallery/load-reduction-relay">http://www.modifieda4.com/gallery/load-reduction-relay</a</li></ul>
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09-19-2006, 02:43 PM
#8
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Replaced with a newer model relay. Still no dice.
Old P/N: 443 951 253 J
New P/N: 7M0 951 253 A
The only differences are, instead of the '213' printed on top, it's now '100' and the new relay is 12V 70A, whereas the old one is 12V 60A.
Ideas?
Driving around without headlights and wipers in the rain is NOT fun. Not to mention no air. Ack!
New P/N: 7M0 951 253 A
The only differences are, instead of the '213' printed on top, it's now '100' and the new relay is 12V 70A, whereas the old one is 12V 60A.
Ideas?
Driving around without headlights and wipers in the rain is NOT fun. Not to mention no air. Ack!