Automatic Headlamps

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2014 RAM 3500 HD and 2014 RAM 2500 HD. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Be certain that the headlamps can be turned ON and OFF manually before attempting to diagnose and repair the Automatic Headlamps. If not, diagnose and repair those problems before attempting to repair the Automatic Headlamps.

NOTE:

Depending on the model vehicle, the Automatic Headlamp switch is either integral to the left multi-function switch/Steering Control Module (SCM) or integral to a headlamp switch on the left side of the steering wheel attached to the instrument panel, which communicates with the ElectroMechanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC)/Cab Compartment Node (CCN) over the Local Interface Network (LIN) data bus. If the switch is located on the multi-function stalk, determine whether the other functions of the left multi-function switch/SCM are operational before performing any of the following tests. If the other left multi-function switch/SCM functions are ineffective, diagnose and repair that problem before attempting to repair the Automatic Headlamps.

CONDITION	POSSIBLE CAUSES	CORRECTION
HEADLAMPS DO NOT ILLUMINATE OR EXTINGUISH AUTOMATICALLY	1. AUTO position not selected with the control knob of the switch.	1. Select the AUTO position with the control knob of the switch.
	2. Engine not running.	2. Start the engine.
	3. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) present.	3. Use a diagnostic scan tool to check for any related DTC's. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information if a code or codes are found.
	4. Ineffective automatic headlamp (sun) sensor circuits.	4. Check that the sun sensor connector and the related HVAC control module connectors are seated properly. Check the automatic headlamp (sun) sensor circuits and between the sensor and the HVAC control module (including sense, power and ground) for opens or shorts. Repair any open or shorted circuits if required.
	5. Ineffective HVAC control module head inputs or outputs.	5. Use a diagnostic scan tool to test the HVAC control module inputs and outputs. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
	6. Ineffective automatic headlamp (sun) sensor.	6. Confirm automatic headlamp (sun) sensor operation by covering and uncovering the sensor while using the diagnostic scan tool to confirm the headlamp (sun) sensor voltage change with each action. If no change is indicated, replace the headlamp (sun) sensor.
	7. Ineffective ElectroMechanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC) (also known as the Cabin Compartment Node/CCN) inputs or outputs.	7. Use a diagnostic scan tool to test the EMIC (CCN) inputs and outputs. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
	8. Ineffective BCM inputs or outputs.	8. Use a diagnostic scan tool to test the BCM inputs and outputs. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.