Installing Automatic Headlight Switch (factory)

**DMAG** · 03-26-2005, 07:23 PM

Automatic Headlight How To
by Jim

What is "Automatic Headlights"?
Automatic Headlights is the ability of the vehicle to monitor the light conditions around the vehicle. If the light goes below a certain point it activates the headlights and dash lights for you automatically. Then when the light levels return to a "safe" level the lights automatically turn off. It's standard equipment on the 300 Limited and 300C but not available as a factory option on any other LX platform.

What do I need?
The list of parts and tools you will need to complete this mod is very short:

1. For this to work you must have the climate sensor installed! This sensor is located in the middle of the dash at the base of window. (Fig. 0)
2. Chrysler headlight switch (part #: 4602348AC)
3. Trim tool (or some other very slim, rigid tool that can be used to pry. I used a butter knife)

How do I remove the existing light switch?
The light switch is held in place by 3 metal clips, two on the top and one on the bottom. (Fig. 1) To remove the switch slide your trim tool into the space between the top edge of the switch panel and dash being very careful not to scratch the dash! Find the clips with the trim tool and push them down and use another trim tool to gently pry the switch panel forward a little at a time switching between the 2 top clips.

Once you have the top of the switch panel pulled forward you will notice that it catches on a piece of the dash. (Fig. 2) You need to use your trim knife to gently pry the dash up some so that you can pull the control out. Mine made a loud pop when it finally came out, scared me to death but it didn't actually damage anything. Once the top is past that piece of the dash then the whole switch assembly will just pull out. The wiring is connected to the switch using a 5 pin connector that has a locking mechanism. To unlock the switch connection pull the red sliding switch (Fig. 3) on the connector away from the switch. Once its unlocked the connection will pull off the switch very easily.

How do I install the new switch?
Connect the wire to the back of the new switch and relock the connector by sliding the red switch towards the light switch. Then simply push the switch back into the dash. The clips will catch and your all done.

How do I use the Automatic Headlights?
The only difference between the new switch and the old is that the new switch has an additional setting on the dial labeled "A". (Fig. 4) Just put the dial in that position and your headlights will turn on and off automatically! I leave mine in that position all the time so I never have to worry about remembering to turn off my headlights.

Fig 0

Fig 1

Fig 2

Fig 3

Fig 4

**VIDEOBOB** · 04-04-2005, 04:40 AM

Just to clarify, this mod works on the Magnum right?
I wasn't sure if this was a 300 specific mod.
SO, the only mod is the addition of the switch and it will automaticly interface with the sensor on the dash?
How much was the switch?
Thanks!

**convbcuda** · 04-04-2005, 07:55 AM

Originally Posted by VIDEOBOB

Just to clarify, this mod works on the Magnum right?
I wasn't sure if this was a 300 specific mod.
SO, the only mod is the addition of the switch and it will automaticly interface with the sensor on the dash?
How much was the switch?
Thanks!

Yes, yes and around $30.

http://moparsupercenter.com/
Look under Dodge, Magnum, 2005, Maintenance items, Headlamp switch.

**Jim** · 04-09-2005, 12:25 PM

New Tip! If you install the switch and it doesn't work but you do have the sensor in your dash try disconnecting the battery for a little while. This solved one users problem.

**rakstr** · 04-15-2005, 10:39 AM

I just called the local dealer and the switch part # 4602348AC has been superceded by part # 4602348AD, The cost is double that mentioned ($60 and change). I'm going to check some other dealers because parts here in the Dallas area can vary an amazing amount from dealer to dealer. I also will try to find out why the new part.

**a12bee** · 04-16-2005, 05:23 AM

Check the vendors from this site, way cheaper than dealer and in a round about way it help support the site.

**Earcandy** · 04-16-2005, 10:44 AM

Does anyone know if you do can just add the dash sensor along with the switch if you don't have it? My wife has a 300 Touring and it does not have either.

Thanks for the help

**CoolVanilla** · 04-20-2005, 08:20 PM

I just installed it with no problem! I ordered via http://moparsupercenter.com/ and received the "AD" version... still was $30.

I'll need to wait till tonight to see if it actually works though

. Thanks for the tip!

**boggart** · 04-20-2005, 09:44 PM

I have not heard of anyone installing the sensor. Have any of you?

**bmartin9122** · 05-16-2005, 01:45 PM

Ordered my AD version today... $34.23 including shipping from South Carolina to South Texas. My local dealer wanted $43.25!!!

Thank you Mopar Supercenter!!!!

**GOT HEMI** · 06-24-2005, 11:21 AM

Orders mine on E-bay for $35 shipped works excellent!

Frank

**BlkHemiMag** · 07-27-2005, 01:16 PM

I've got my switch and started to install, but I was worried that I'd force it, slip, or break something. I remember reading a post about getting to it the round about way of removing the panel(s) below the steering column, but I've tried several searches and can't seem to find it again. Could someone point me in the right direction? thx

**fnkychkn** · 07-27-2005, 02:56 PM

Originally Posted by BlkHemiMag

I've got my switch and started to install, but I was worried that I'd force it, slip, or break something. I remember reading a post about getting to it the round about way of removing the panel(s) below the steering column, but I've tried several searches and can't seem to find it again. Could someone point me in the right direction? thx

disconnect and isolate battery negative cable. wait 2 minutes for airbag capacitor to discharge. remove steering column opening cover. from underneath and behind the instrument panel, push up on the lower clip on the headlamp switch then wiggle it down and out of instrument panel.