Headlight switch not working?

2009 CHEVROLET MALIBU
72,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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DREA LYNN
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  • 3 POSTS
I turn off my auto lights in the daytime and my headlight switch is not working. The only time my lights go on or off is when I turn the car on or off. Also, my third brake light is not working so I wasn't sure if this is connected together.
Mar 17, 2023 at 7:49 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

Do both the high and low beam work or is it just one or the other? This is with the switch off. I ask because each beam has its own relay which may have failed. I attached the headlamp wiring schematic below (pics 1 and 2)

Next, I went through the headlamp schematics and there doesn't appear to be any correlation with the third brake lamp. See pic 3. Once again, there is a relay and fuse.

Check the fuse and relay in pic 4 (under-hood fuse box).

Here are two links you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Let me know what you find.

Joe

See pics below.
Images (Click to enlarge)
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Mar 17, 2023 at 9:30 PM
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DREA LYNN
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Hi Joe! Thanks for responding. Yes, it was just the low beam bulb. My husband and I just replaced the bulb yesterday and it seems to be working just fine. I did purchase a new headlight switch as I am not able to turn the lights on and off with the switch. Hopefully that is the problem! I really appreciate your help!
Mar 27, 2023 at 11:47 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

At least it was something simple. LOL As far as the switch, let me know if there is anything I can do to help.

Take care and again, thanks for the update.

Joe
Mar 28, 2023 at 8:11 PM