Exterior Lighting Systems Description and Operation: Headlamps

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The headlamps may be turned on in 2 different ways. First, when the driver places the headlamp switch in the HEADLAMP position, for normal operation. Second, with the headlamp switch placed in the AUTO position, for automatic lamp control (ALC). During ALC the headlamps will be in day time running lamp (DRL) operation in daylight conditions, or headlamp operation in low light conditions.

Headlamp ON/OFF control is determined by the body control module (BCM) by a signal on the headlamp switch headlamp on signal circuit when the headlamp switch is in the HEAD position. When the headlamp switch is in the AUTO position, the BCM determines headlamps ON/OFF by the voltage from the ambient light sensor.

If the headlamp switch is left in the ON position, the inadvertent power control feature will turn off the headlamps approximately 10 minutes after the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position. If the driver places the headlamp switch in the ON position after the ignition switch has been turned OFF, or if the ignition switch is in the ACCY position, the headlamps will remain ON until turned OFF or the battery runs dead.