Headlamp Leveling Motor: Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Jeep Liberty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The controller board and logic circuitry of the headlamp leveling motor control motor operation based upon a voltage signal input received from the resistor multiplexed headlamp leveling switch on the instrument panel. When the motor is energized it will extend or retract the motor pushrod through the integral screw-drive transmission. The ball on the end of the pushrod is snapped into a socket on the back of the reflector within the headlamp unit housing, which will cause the reflector to move as the pushrod is extended or retracted, changing the angle at which the light is projected from the headlamps.

The headlamp leveling motors and switch have a path to ground at all times. The headlamp leveling components operate on battery voltage received through the fused park lamp relay output circuit so that the system will only operate when the exterior lighting is turned On.

Because of active electronic elements within the headlamp leveling motor, it cannot be tested using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. If the headlamp leveling system is believed to be faulty, the headlamp leveling circuits and the leveling switch must be tested before considering motor replacement.