I have a 2003 TT and I am having some issues with both my headlights. They do not always turn on when I turn them on. The parking lights, front fog lights and rear "fog" light come on like they are suppose to. I have to turn the lights on and off several times before they come on. Sometimes they don't come on until I have been driving around for about 5 minutes (with my fog lights on), then turn them off and on again. Both headlights do this; that is, they are either both on, or they are both off. Any idea what the problem may be?

 

If they both come on and off at the same time, it's probably something electrical upstream.

If they come on and off independently, could they be loose? The headlights slide in as a complete assembly and then get tightened via a hex wrench (the tool is in the black plastic tool container in the front trunk). If the hex bolt wasn't tightened when the bulbs were replaced, they will definitely be flickering on and off as you drive, but probably not at the same time. The bigger question is why are they loose? Was the car in an accident? Headlights are not usually a maintenance item. What's the mileage?

 

I had the exact same problem with my '03 last summer. I had to switch the lights on and off 2 -3 times before the lights would come on. After a while, I was afraid it wouldn't come on at all. A bummer when you are away from home at nite.
I replaced the headlight switch (myself). It's been fine.

 

Either the headlight switch or the ignition switch (with the lights turned on can you jiggle the keys in the ignition and get them to come on/off?)

 

Thanks for the replies guys. It seems that I have the same problem as dmilzoff and will look to replacing the light switch.

Dmilzoff, how hard was it to replace and where did you get the replacement switch?

 

Mine started to do the same, replacing the headlight switch did the trick! I think this failure is quite common on 996 since my dealer kept a few in stock.

 

I got the part from Suncoast. I first tried removing the part to use electic cleaner but the part is all enclosed and I couldn't get the cleaner to the switch surfaces. I don't remember that replacing the part was very difficult. I believe that you needed a small allen wrench to remove the switch handle.

 

Thanks for the responses guys. I just ordered the headlight switch from Suncoast. They had the best price I could find. I hope this fixes the problem. Will report back once the part gets here and I install it.

 

You guys were right. It was the headlight switch. It took me about 15-20 minutest to put in the new part. Problem solved. Thanks again guys.