Bad Headlamp/Turn Signal Switch? '94 Grand Am

[benjamming]

The headlamp/turn signal switch was replaced at 117k miles/10 years ago with AC Delco part. The failure was that the headlights would just go off & the cruise didn't work. The car now has 198k miles. The headlights still work fine but the turn signal & hazard lights are flaky. I have to hold the stalk just right for the turn signals to work; same with the hazard lights. The cruise also doesn't work, but that may be due to a separate issue as the cruise has never been reliable on this car. The car doesn't have daytime running lights.

How do I know for sure the headlamp switch is bad? I don't want to throw parts at it, but I also don't want to wait until the headlights don't work if it is indeed this switch again. It's still available from GM, ~ $100 from online dealerships, & would be non-returnable wherever I get it.

Thanks.

 

[pcoxe]

I had a 98 Monte Carlo which is about the same vehicle that had turn signal problems. Poorly designed turn signal switch and a real pain to replace. Traded the car when the switch failed a second time. When small town parts stores keep a turn signal switch in stock, you can bet it's a high fail item.

 

[NHGUY]

GM makes the poor designs,and everybody has to deal with them until the day its scrapped...then they buy another...

 

[Jimmy9190]

Do you have a Haynes Book for the car? I am not sure about a Pontiac but the Haynes Book for my Dodge has the directions for removing the turn signal switch and testing its contacts with a volt meter set on continuity.

 

[GSCJR]

Sounds like the multi-function switch requires replacement once again, common. Hey NHGUY, nice one, so true.

 

[artificialist]

These switches are weak, also be sure to blast the connectors clean.

 

[benjamming]

Jimmy9190,

I don't have a Haynes manual.

Yep, local parts stores have it in stock for $70. That seems like the way to go along with "renting" a steering wheel puller.

 

[The_Eric]

I've done two in my wife's Grand Am. They're not too hard to do if you put your mind to it. Certainly not so bad as to trade off the car as another poster did.

 

[moklock]

Had the headlight issue on an Achieva once. Liberal spraying of contact cleaner and lots of toggling of the switch may make it work but I also eventually replaced mine as it also didnt click the highbeams on solidly every time.