[rweaver]

2004 SAAB 9-5 Sport-Combi:

So, The passenger side headlight (SAAB factory Xenon with new (less than 3 months old lamp), is flickering. The lamp flickers and sometimes goes out completely for a second or two the comes back on. As I mentioned above the I replaced both of the xenon bulbs three months ago, and the color of the light has not faded.

The wires do not seem to be loose. I am > 2hours form the nearest SAAB dealership so taking in to have it checked out is pretty much out of the question, plus I doubt they would have any ideas that I couldn't get from this group.

Can someone recommend a course of action. Is it possible that I got a "bad" replacement bulb? Is there a history of shorts in the front headlight assembly?

I need to get this solved before I get pulled over, or really anger other drivers by constantly flickering my lights as I am following them.

Thanks!

 

[blazinskunk]

I have the same problem with my 08. Driver side xenon flickers but it only seems to happen when the car is warming up. I'd love to hear what anyone has to say on this.

 

[trapperpg]

To determine if it is the bulb, swap sides. If the problem goes to the driver side, it is the bulb. If it stays on the passenger side, it is not the bulb. I had a similar issue, and it was the light control module. Though somewhat more involved than swapping bulbs, the modules can be swapped side to side. Mine eventually failed completely, and after replacement, the flickering was no longer present. Of all the issues these cars have, I don't think I have escaped a single one, visiting some of them twice.

 

[rweaver]

I had a similar issue, and it was the light control module.

Thanks, 2 follow-ups:
Do you have a handy link describing how-to swap the light control modules?

Do you remember where you found your replacement light control module and about how much it cost?

-Rob

 

[trapperpg]

No link. The procedure is fairly simple. Remove turn signal assy's by pulling forward, and unhook wiring. You now carefully remove the outer grill pieces. There are tabs on the bottom I think. Work slowly to avoid breaking the tabs. There are 3 screws holding the head-light unit in; 1 is on top, 1 is accessed in the grill opening, and the third is where the turn signal was. Once the screws are removed, the light unit will slide out and you can disconnect the wiring harness. You may want to tape the bumper under the light, as there is very little clearance, but it will slide out. The module is on the underside of the light unit.

 

[rweaver]

The procedure is fairly simple.

Ha! good one! Simple in theory, I'm sure I'll end up with a few cut knuckes.
I'll report on the findings of the swap!

If the module is bad, can you recommend your source for a new one?

Thanks again!

 

[trapperpg]

I assume since you are swapping control modules that the bulb swap indicated that the bulbs were not the problem.

Really, it's not that bad. You learn on the first one, and after that it goes quickly. Remember to plug the harness into the module, or you get to repeat the procedure.

One added benefit, it is a good time to tighten the banjo bolts on the trans cooler, as the grill being out gives nice access to the lower bolts.

I found the lowest price/in stock at Shaw Saab. www.saabusaparts.com