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Automatic headlight sensor always on

Old 11-07-2008, 10:27 AM
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Automatic headlight sensor always on

I have my headlights set to automatic, and I noticed ever since I got my windshield replaced (yes with the rain sensor compatible), my headlights always stay on. Sure, I could manually switch them off but I'd like the installer to be responsible to fix it if he caused the problem. Do you guys think the windshield replacement is related to my problem?
Old 11-07-2008, 11:28 AM
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Hi vectorz,

From what I understand, the light sensor is not on the windshield, but rather in between the hood vents at the top of the hood. It's a rounded black plastic piece between the windshield washer nozzles. I highlighted it in the attached picture. Maybe when they replaced the windshield they may have hit or damaged this sensor.

I'd try cleaning it first just to be sure it's not dirty.
Attached Thumbnails Automatic headlight sensor always on-light-sensor.jpg  
Old 11-07-2008, 11:29 AM
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Wow, ok. Thanks for clearing that up. I'll investigate further before I blame them
Old 11-09-2008, 01:31 PM
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Have you tried turning the constant function off in your dash menu? The guy might have accidentally tripped it or something...?
Old 11-09-2008, 02:03 PM
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I mean no disrespect, but Cintoman is absolutely 100% wrong. The sensor he is referring to is a sun position sensor for the climate control unit. On vehicles with the lower end climate control system it is simply a black cover that serves no purpose. The light sensor is indeed mounted on the windshield behind the rear view mirror (the rain sensor is in this same area).

I wish the misinformation on these forums would stop.


Originally Posted by Cintoman
Hi vectorz,

From what I understand, the light sensor is not on the windshield, but rather in between the hood vents at the top of the hood. It's a rounded black plastic piece between the windshield washer nozzles. I highlighted it in the attached picture. Maybe when they replaced the windshield they may have hit or damaged this sensor.

I'd try cleaning it first just to be sure it's not dirty.
Old 11-09-2008, 05:44 PM
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Also check the Daytime Running Light option on the computer. It might jst need to be reset to fully automatic.
Old 11-09-2008, 07:35 PM
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W203 slightly modified
Originally Posted by vectorz
I have my headlights set to automatic, and I noticed ever since I got my windshield replaced (yes with the rain sensor compatible), my headlights always stay on. Sure, I could manually switch them off but I'd like the installer to be responsible to fix it if he caused the problem. Do you guys think the windshield replacement is related to my problem?
The people who replaced the glass did not attach the wire to the light sensor again. You will probably find that your rain sensor does not work either.

Remove the black plastic cover in the middle of the screen and see if anything looks wrong.
Old 11-09-2008, 10:38 PM
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Something Slow
since everyone one is talking about rain sensor and Running lights i have a questions for people with a 2005 C Class and up.... is it true in order for the Locator Lights to work you must leave the Headlamp switch in Auto Position? and Turn on in Cluster menu? True or False?

i have a 2001 C320 and once the locator option is turn on in the Cluster Menu it works without turn the switch to AUTO. but ever since i upgraded to the 05+ Front SAM the only way the Locator lights work is with the Cluster menu on and the Swicth turned to Auto!...
Old 11-09-2008, 11:30 PM
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Originally Posted by WaveyKat
since everyone one is talking about rain sensor and Running lights i have a questions for people with a 2005 C Class and up.... is it true in order for the Locator Lights to work you must leave the Headlamp switch in Auto Position? and Turn on in Cluster menu? True or False?

i have a 2001 C320 and once the locator option is turn on in the Cluster Menu it works without turn the switch to AUTO. but ever since i upgraded to the 05+ Front SAM the only way the Locator lights work is with the Cluster menu on and the Swicth turned to Auto!...
Correct. If the switch isn't turned to auto, then the fog lights won't light up for the "locator" function. (which makes it even weirder that you can't have the fogs come on automatically with the headlights )
Old 11-11-2008, 12:26 AM
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Guys, thanks for the heads up. I double checked the panel connected to the rear view mirror and everything looks connected properly. Can a bad glass panel cause this?
Old 11-11-2008, 06:40 PM
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[QUOTE=dbvolz;3158413]Have you tried turning the constant function off in your dash menu?QUOTE]

Did you check this?

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