1999 Chevrolet Blazer: headlights failing or too dim

Filed Nov 7, 2012 · Electrical, Lights · 140,000 miles · ND

1999 chevrolet blazer lt - multifunction switch (common problem!) is malfunctioning. Turn signal/flasher relay is constantly clicking whether signals are in use or not -- unless the brakes are applied. Good sign of an electrical short. The cause of this issue is the grease inside the switch, applied at the factory, running from contact to contact. This switch includes the wipers, cruise control, turn signals, hazards, and can also cause vehicle lighting (headlights, brake lights) to malfunction. Many cases include non-working brake lights! Others have reported smoke coming from the switch as the contacts are shorted by the grease. I inherited this vehicle from my grandfather, who couldn't hear the relay firing -- it is the only indicator inside the vehicle that something may be going wrong. There are no visible indicators inside the vehicle letting a person know their lights are malfunctioning. As there is no recall for this year of blazer (though I understand other years have had the same problem recalled), I will be replacing the switch on my own. Dealer quoted the price for the part alone well out of my price range (nevermind labor), so I'm going to have to shop around to get the vehicle in safe driving condition. Thanks for reading. I appreciate it!

Filed Jan 26, 2010 · Acceleration, Lights · 129,000 miles · 00

I have 2 blazers 1999 and both have the same problem a failing multi function switch that makes an annoying constant clicking sound that come from behind the glove box. I had one repaired last year that cost me over 600$ and now my other blazer is having the me the same problem .the part they have change is the arm for the flasher right /left in witch includes the cruise control high beam light.

Filed Dec 5, 2005 · Lights, Steering · 15,421 miles · ME

Dt: the contact complained about multiple problems with this vehicle. The 4-wheel drive actuation motor was replaced. The heater core became blocked and was flushed by the dealer. The steering box and pitman arm were replaced. Also, the front wheel bearings were replaced. The headlights became dim. The rear windshield wiper stopped working. The dealer performed numerous repairs, and could not offer an explanation as to why these problems occurred at such low mileage. The vehicle is remained at the dealer awaiting repairs on the rear windshield wiper. Also, replaced loose front hubs.

Filed Sep 26, 2001 · Lights · VA

Lights on dashboard for 4x4/2x4 began flashing while driving. Vehicle was in normal mode. Also, service 4 wd drive light came on. Took to country cehvrolet in warrenton, va-advised of 4wd problem also advised check engine light comes on, headlights dim occassionally when driving. In addition, when engine is turned off and radio remains on, battery died 2 times. Mechanic found circuit 1133 shorted to steering column bracket, replaced wire. Problem reoccurred immediately. Returned to country chev-rechecked and replaced wiring. 4wd lights still flash. Unable to determine trouble.

Filed Mar 12, 2001 · Brakes, Lights · MD

Vehicle lighting system, including dash, interior lights, head lights, etc, will blink erradically. The manufacturer is aware of the problem, and has indicated that it could be the ABS system malfunctioning, or something else, they are unsure. I have contacted gm on several occasions for updates. They provide nothing.

Filed Nov 18, 2000 · Brakes · VA

I reported my defect (headlights & dash lights dimmed ) to gmac, within 3 mo of my purchase, I wasn't sure I what I was seeing at first. I was told by gmac to take my blazer to whitlow chevrolet (804‑323‑7600), they kept my blazer for 2 days. They said they could not reproduce my problem. I was told by the service writer, they would inform me of any bulletins that might be related to my problem. I mentioned I heard the 1999 corvette had the same problem, he said it was not related at all. I change my oil every 3,000mi and every time I visited whitlow I would ask the question about my problem, the response was "no". I took a trip to indiania on I-70, I was driving the posted speed limit, so was the driver in front of me. My lights dimmed and the driver in front of me got behind me and flashed his lights for several miles. I thought I was going to be a victim. Asap, I called gmac , they listen to my problem again referred me to ratley chevrolet (540‑898‑4000). My first visit was interesting, they knew my about my problem. Inorder for my extended warranty to cover the work, they needed to prove my problem. They kept my blazer overnite, put it on their computer, found my problem a faulty ABS sensors ,and computer modual causing the ABS motor to turn itself on/off ,dimming my headlights & dash lights. To my surprise I was told chevrolet could not fix my problem because the ABS computer modual and sensors were defective. So I'm still driving blazer, less at night. My concern is if the ABS motor is contantly running on/off, what is the lifetime of the ABS motor, I'm sure it was not designed for a constant on/off life cycle, my question to you and chverolet, will my ABS, work when I really need them, too. I am turning to you for help. Thanks in advance, richard hillard.

Filed Jun 7, 2000 · Lights · NY

While driving with headlights on, instrument lights and the headlights would go off without prior warning. This could happen from time to time.

Filed Jan 20, 2000 · Electrical · OH

Vehicle is experiencing driving light and tail light failure, sometimes the lights will go out and a few hours later, they'll be back on again, the compass went crazy one time, the dealer replaced the automatic headlight switch, but the consumer is still having the same problems with the lights, the battery also failed.

Filed Aug 5, 1999 · Brakes · TX

Upon applying brakes quickly ABS will kick in and vehicle will keep on going. Vehicle has also had many other problems--windows, stereo, door inserts, grill, headlights, all of which either had to be replaced or repaired. *ak