Lighting and Horns: Description and Operation

LAMP SYSTEMS
Each vehicle is equipped with various lamp assemblies. A good ground is necessary for proper lighting operation. Grounding is provided through a separate ground wire.

HEADLAMPS
Headlamps on the Dakota are modular units. Each unit contains a headlamp module, a dual filament replaceable bulb, and parking lamp and turn signal bulbs.

The headlamps are controlled by the headlamp switch and the multifunction switch. Each headlamp unit can be serviced individually.

HEADLAMP SWITCH
The headlamp switch is located on the instrument panel. The headlamp switch controls the parking lamps, the headlamps, the interior lamps, and instrument cluster illumination. The headlamp switch also contains a rheostat for controlling the illumination level of the instrument cluster lamps.

The headlamp switch has an off position, a parking lamp position, and a headlamp on position. High beams are controlled by the multifunction switch on the steering column. The headlamp switch cannot be repaired, it must be replaced. Refer to for removal and installation procedures.

TAIL/TURN SIGNAL/STOP/BACK-UP LAMP
The rear tail lamp modules are mounted on the truck bed, outboard of the tailgate, and molded into the lines of the vehicle. Each module contains two bulbs, a lens, and a housing. One bulb is a two filament bulb used for tail, stop, and turn signal functions. The other bulb is a single filament bulb used for back-up light illumination.

Each tail lamp module can be serviced separately. Each bulb can also be serviced separately. The headlamp switch controls tail lamp operation. The multifunction switch controls turn signal operation, and the back-up light switch controls the back-up light operation. The brake lamp switch controls the stop lamp function.

FRONT TURN SIGNAL/PARKING LAMP
The front turn signal/parking lamp is incorporated in the headlamp module. The bulbs are serviceable separately.

The parking light function is controlled by the headlamp switch located on the instrument panel. The turn signal function is controlled by the multi-function switch located on the steering column. Each front turn signal/parking lamp module can be serviced separately.

CHMSL LAMP (CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP)
The center high mounted stop lamp (CHMSL)is mounted above the cab rear window, below the roof. The module consists of a single filament bulb, a lens, and a housing.

CHMSL operation is controlled by the brake lamp switch.

DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS
The Daytime Running Lights (Headlamps) System is installed on vehicles manufactured for sale in Canada only. A separate module, mounted on the cowl, controls the DRL.

The headlamps are illuminated when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. The DRL module receives a vehicle-moving signal from the vehicle speed sensor. This provides a constant headlamps-on condition as long as the vehicle is moving. The lamps are illuminated at less than 50 percent of normal intensity.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

WARNING: EYE PROTECTION SHOULD BE USED WHEN SERVICING GLASS COMPONENTS. PERSONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.

CAUTION: Do not touch the glass of halogen bulbs with fingers or other possibly oily surface, reduced bulb life will result.

Do not use bulbs with higher candle power than indicated in the Bulb Application table at the end. Damage to lamp and/or Daytime Running Lamp Module can result.

Do not use fuses, circuit breakers or relays having greater amperage value than indicated on the fuse panel or in the Owners Manual.

When it is necessary to remove components to service another; it should not be necessary to apply excessive force or bend a component to remove it. Before damaging a trim component, verify hidden fasteners or captured edges are not holding the component in place.