Did any of the early 2000's SDs come with automatic headlights? I have a 2000 that I wanted to convert to ahve this feature. I found an after market module to manage the automatic functionality, but I wanted to see if any of the years had this as a factory option so that i could locate the factory switch that has all 4 positions.

 

2001 to 2012 have the feature standard I believe it was an option on 1999 and 2000. But I am talking 250sd xlt and 250sd lariat here. A Nice feature when it works, mine had a Multrifunction switch short and resulting fire and after that big trouble with main headlight switch microcontroller (computer) and it's related Security module.

 

I believe that it was an option much longer than the MY 2001. The 2004 XLT I had before my current truck did not have auto headlights, but my 2002 does. I still don't use it. I can decide when to turn my lights on.

 

You may be right, my dealer just said when I bought the truck that the LT version doesn't have the auto-headlight but the XLT does. In any event, I am removing it as I have already had I fire don't need another. If it matters, the fire issue is from a badly designed Multifunction switch which when it fails can cross wire headlights to signal lights to wiper control to 4 way flash. Returning my rig to non-auto and redesigning the multifunction is by far a cheaper, more reliable, and functional option for me.

 

'XL' trim package... it's not a GM product.

Also, auto headlamp control is part of the Advanced Security Group package now, not necessarily standard equipment on all trims. I didn't want to have a door keypad so I also don't have auto headlamps - all included in one package, which isn't a big deal.

 

And - he didn't! I hate that. Find a post that is exactly what you are looking for and the original poster doesn't end the post with an outcome. Oh well - keep on searching!

 

FYI, I ended up replacing my switch with one that had the automatic position (I did not want the fog light option, so I didn't order that switch), and installing the light sensor on the dash. The wiring plug for the switch was the same and the wiring for the light sensor was already there (clipped into the plug in the dash). Once installed, the automatic headlight and auto shut off functions worked WITHOUT having to have the computer flashed!

I bought my parts from Tasca, where they were MUCH CHEAPER than even eBay - $54 shipped.

 

 

Hi Nick,


It's very simple. 1)Buy a light sensor and switch with automatic function. 2)Use a screwdriver to pop the plug in the top center of the dash out. There is a wiring harness attached to the underside of this plug. 3)Plus the harness into the light sensor and pop the sensor back in the hole. 4) Use a screwdriver to pop the access plate off the driver side dash to access the back of the light switch. 5)Plastic clips hold the panel (or switch) in the dash - carefully pry them up to release the panel or switch (I don't remember which). 6)Remove the old switch and replace with the new one. 7)Reinstall in the dash.


Mine worked first time, but I don't remember if that was after I had it reprogrammed for the brake controller or not (or if that would even have anything to do with it). So if yours doesn't work first time, you MIGHT have to have it programmed by the dealer (call them if it doesn't work).


Hope this helps.


Matt

 

 

Extra, extra, read all about it. So I went ahead and ordered the following parts from Tasca. It was as simple as installing the light sensor and new switch and I now have auto headlights on my 2012 Super Duty. It took all of 5 minutes to install. Easiest vehicle modification I’ve ever done!

 

 

I used 8C3Z-11654-DA switch and 7L1Z-13A018-A

Looks like Nick (previous post) used a switch with a different part #, but it must have worked also.
9L3Z-11654-DA
Headlamp Switch
$21.57

7L1Z-13A018-A
Sun Load Sensor
$15.95

Subtotal
$37.52

 

 

yeah, definitely a cheap, easy, worthwhile upgrade. The plate is part of the switch.