2nd Generation Specific (1986-1992) 1986-1992 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections.

high beams don't work

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Old Jun 16, 2008 | 11:57 PM
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high beams don't work

I'm new here and I have searched so I'm hoping someone has a simple fix. I recently bought two 91 convertibles about a month apart. With the first one, I only get low beams on the headlights. The high beam switch doesn't click or otherwise change the lights. I was surprised to find the same problem with the second car. Is this a common problem and if so, is the only fix re-soldering connections inside the switch or something like that? As I said I'm new and learning all kinds of things about the electrical gremlins but would appreciate any help. Thanks.
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Old Jun 17, 2008 | 03:24 AM
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Both times I had this issue it was the relay going faulty.
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Old Jun 22, 2008 | 11:08 AM
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One the bar in front of the rad on driver's side, I pulled and tested the relay closest to the center of the car. I thought it was the dimmer relay, but it was the headlight relay. I don't think they are the same thing. There are 5 relays fastened to the bar. Which one is the dimmer relay?
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Old Jun 22, 2008 | 07:40 PM
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I would have to look aththe FSM to determine that.
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Old Jun 22, 2008 | 10:47 PM
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OK, now I know that the second relay (blue) is the dimmer. I will test that. Thanks
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Old Jun 23, 2008 | 10:17 AM
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Ive also had two CPUs go out causing no high beams, key/door open dings in my vert, when the high beams go out its really either the relay or or the one board in the CPU, which you can solder but i decided to buy a new board from mazdatrix.

Just something for you to think of if the relay turns out good.

Matt
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Old Jun 23, 2008 | 04:31 PM
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The relay has checked out as fine. Appreciate the help regarding the cpu. Now that you mention it, I don't have any warning buzzers or chimes so maybe this is the problem area.
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Old Jun 23, 2008 | 05:31 PM
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Yea the vert cpu's seem to be notorious for this kind of thing, mazdatrix has what your looking for unless you know what your doing and want to repair the board.

IIRC, the mazdatrix board is upgraded to reduce future failures. I haven't had any problems since.

Matt
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Old Jun 23, 2008 | 06:01 PM
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I've got the cpu off and have taken out the large board. I'm likely in way over my head. In your experience, was it the large horn cpu, the flasher cpu or both? I think maybe the smartest thing to do is just order both from mazdatrix.

Last edited by bc2262; Jun 23, 2008 at 06:15 PM.
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Old Jun 23, 2008 | 06:35 PM
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I just ordered the large board and it fixed everything. Not 100% sure what the flasher board controls but when I installed the larger "horn" board it seemed to do the trick as far as fixing headlights and all the chimes.

Matt
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Old Jun 23, 2008 | 09:23 PM
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As a less expensive alternative to getting a rebuilt CPU, I'm thinking about getting a headlight wiring harness from blackdragonauto.com. Has anyone had experience with this setup? Is it as easy to hook up as the website says? I'm looking for something quick and easy since I need high beams before I can register and insure the car around here.
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