Hello,

I've searched afor nd found a couple of folks who had a similar problem with their 98 4Runners, but havent seen a definitive solution.

The problem is that I can get my headlights to go off by applying downward pressure on the turn signal (i.e. making a left turn). Probably a bad contact somewhere in the chain, but before I start disassembling the whole steering wheel column, I'm wondering if anyone's had a similar issue and fixed it.

If not, does anyone know of a good thread that describes how to take the steering column apart and remove the turn signal lever assembly?

Thanks, and regards.
-Ted

 

ted,

in all my time here, this is the first time i've heard of something like this.

to remove the steering wheel cover column, turn the ignition into position II (i.e. to the point where the power steering pump is activated) and turn the steering wheel to the right until you can see a philips head screw. turn the other way and remove the other screw. the cover then can be easily unsnapped apart.

bob

 

Hi Bob -- thanks for the reply, here's links to the threads I was referring to:
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/turn-signal-problem-40605/
https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/headlight-flickers-22780/

 

maybe this is the same problem you have??

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/dead-spot-your-head-light-switch-ive-got-your-fix-72134/

 

Thanks Garrett -- Looks like I'll be getting the grease out!

 

I just bought a 98 4runner and it has this same problem, good thing I saw this thread cause I was about to post one that would of been identicle.

 

I just hope you have much more luck than I do. I've filed the contacts, greased them, and even freaking soldered them but I still have the stinking problem. I'm considering going back and just taking bare wires and soldering them to the contacts, but for the trouble, I might as well buy a new one. $200 from the stealership seems a little bit steep. I do know this is a common occurance for the 98 4Rs so I'm wondering if there may possibly be a TSB or something for this? If not then we should make complaints to Toyota Company and get a TSB set up for it.

 

how many miles do all of yall have?? this has never happened to me...and i really hope it doesnt start....

EDIT: i guess this isnt a problem that would grow as mileage increases is it...

 

ah, i forgot to mention that htere is a screw on the bottom steering cover

bob

 

I've got around 121K on my clock, but it started happening around 90K miles. I'm tired of fooling with the thing. I am kinda curious though since it seems like only the '98 4Rs have this problems than any other year models *or at least from what I've seen here*.

 

I have the same problem with my switch on my 98.

 

Occasionally mine will kick the headlights off momentarily after making a left turn and straightening out again. When the turn signal stick automatically clicks back into the 'normal' position, the lights cut out for a second. This is a 97.