2003 Accord headlight issues

Discussion in 'Accord' started by Fred D, Dec 17, 2005.

  1. Fred D

    Fred D Guest

    Bizarre, however while driving, my headlights will fade in
    and out by 50% every 2-5 minutes. Its not caused by road
    terrain. Any thoughts?
     
    Fred D, Dec 17, 2005
    #1
  2. It's caused by the air conditioner compressor cycling in.
    When you use the windshield defroster, by default the A/C runs also, to
    dehumidify the air.

    There is even has an explanation for it:

    Headlights & Dash Lights Dim With Electrical Load

    NOTE: This article applies to all Honda models
    except Passport.
    Soon after the change from daylight savings time to
    standard time (the last Sunday in October), Tech Line
    gets numerous calls about flickering or dimming
    headlights and/or dash lights when the brakes or turn
    signals are used.
    This flickering or dimming happens when the battery
    is supplying most of the current for the electrical load
    instead of the alternator (something a customer is
    more likely to notice when their headlights are turned
    on).
    Since the early ’90s, Honda vehicles have come with
    an electrical load detector (ELD) unit in the
    under-hood fuse/relay box. This unit allows the
    ECM/PCM to regulate the alternator (switch it
    between high output and low output) to provide the
    best combination of fuel economy and electrical
    system operation. The ELD sends a signal to the
    ECM/PCM that’s proportional to the electrical
    demand. The ECM/PCM switches the alternator
    between high output and low output depending on
    several factors, which include electrical demand,
    battery charge level, and the driving cycle. When the
    alternator is in low output, the engine load is reduced
    and fuel economy improves.
    If your customer complains about this flickering or
    dimming, tell them about the ELD unit and how it
    works. Unless the engine won’t crank, or the vehicle
    has other symptoms of a weak battery, chances are the
    flickering or dimming isn’t an electrical problem.

    --Gene
     
    Gene S. Berkowitz, Dec 17, 2005
    #2
  3. Fred D

    Fred D Guest

    Thanks Gene, however it continues with the climate control
    off as well.
     
    Fred D, Dec 23, 2005
    #3
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