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magdalenabeck1

Alfa 147 Light Control Glitch Causes Error Codes

Anyone had issues with their light switch? My dashboard lights and tail lights are acting up on my 2010 Alfa 147 (1.6 gasoline, 67k km). The dimmer switch seems faulty and keeps triggering error codes. After a bad experience with my last mechanic, Im looking for tips on diagnosis and reliable repair options. Has anyone dealt with similar electrical problems and can share their repair costs?

4 comment(s)

norbertmond1

Had a similar electrical problem with my 2013 Alfa Giulietta 1.4T. The dimmer switch malfunction started with intermittent dashboard lighting issues, then spread to the tail lights. The automotive switch began triggering multiple error codes. After proper diagnosis, it turned out the issue wasnt the dimmer switch itself, but rather corroded connectors in the fuse box. The car lighting system shares several common grounds, and when these connection points deteriorate, it causes cascading electrical problems across multiple circuits. The repair involved cleaning the fuse box contacts, replacing the main lighting relay, and updating the body control module firmware. It was a serious issue that could have led to complete lighting failure if left unattended. When checking yours, start with the basics: inspect all fuse box connections and the wiring harness near the steering column where the dimmer switch connects. Often, the problem stems from poor connections rather than faulty components themselves. A qualified auto electrician should be able to diagnose this precisely using proper diagnostic equipment to trace the circuit issues.

magdalenabeck1 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed explanation. Glad I found someone with a similar issue. Mine started exactly the same way with the dashboard lights flickering before the tail lights started acting up. Those corroded connectors in the fuse box make sense given how the headlight switch and other lighting controls are behaving. Would you mind sharing what the repair cost in your case? Also curious if you had any recurring issues with the automotive switch system since getting it fixed? Want to make sure I budget correctly and know what to expect long term.

norbertmond1

Following up on my earlier reply, the repair for my Giulietta was much simpler than initially expected. The headlight switch wiring had a loose connection that was causing all those electrical problems. After seeing a certified mechanic, they found and fixed the faulty light switch connection point for 95 Euro, which was mainly labor costs to trace and repair the cable. Since getting the automotive switch system fixed, everything has worked perfectly. No more dashboard lights flickering or error codes popping up. The tail lights are also functioning normally now. Looking back, I should have addressed the electrical problem sooner, but at least the repair was straightforward and relatively affordable. The key was finding a mechanic who properly diagnosed the issue instead of just replacing parts. A loose connection can mimic more serious electrical faults, so proper diagnosis saves both time and money.

magdalenabeck1 (Author)

Thanks everyone for your help. I finally got my car fixed last week. After taking it to a new mechanic, they found multiple issues with the car lighting system. The dimmer switch had worn contacts and there was significant corrosion in the fuse box, just like mentioned. The repair took about 3 hours. They cleaned all connections, replaced the faulty light switch assembly, and checked the entire circuit. Total cost came to 180 Euro which included parts and labor. The tail lights and dashboard lighting are now working perfectly. What really impressed me was how thorough the new mechanic was in explaining the problem. They showed me the corroded parts and walked me through the automotive switch system testing. No more error codes or flickering lights since the repair. Definitely worth getting it properly diagnosed rather than trying quick fixes.

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