Expert: Ray Hawk - 12/3/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello,
I have a 2000 Cavalier that has since the day I bought it had a check engine light on when you drive without your lights on.
The right high beam did not work, even when I replaced the bulb, but as I only used it for a work car I didn't fuss with it and let it be. Now the right low beam is dim as well, I'm not sure how to fix this problem and I have to have it Echecked in Feb. Should I just buy a new harness for the front end? I went to a junk yard and got a head lamp harness out of a sunfire, it worked, but only switch the problem to the left lamp instead of the right. I'm thinking perhaps I need an entire front end harness instead of just a head lamp harness.
I'm very willing to work on it myself just don't know where to begin.

Thanks for your time.
-R

ANSWER: Hello Rachael,

That's a strange problem. If you want to replace the entire front harness, that may fix the problem. However, you may just have a damaged fuse, or a damaged or defective headlight switch.

Hope ths helps you!

-Ray A. Hawk

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Any idea where I can find an entire wiring harness or head light switch for this car? I've already checked the fuses.
Is it possible its the daytime light relay?

Answer
Hi Rachael,

Yes, the daytime light relay could have blown; if you want to try replacing it, that's up to you.
As for the wiring harness, because your car is still relatively modern, you could probably purchase a new set from Chevrolet. If not, try going to an auto dump and find a car with the same harness, like another Cavalier or other similar Chevy model. The head light switch is very, very easy to find; you can get that at almost any auto parts store, like Advance Auto Parts or Pep Boys. You could also try eBay. Or you could try finding a better-looking one in an aftermarket shop or website, or see if you can find one at a local car show.

Good luck!

-Ray A. Hawk