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2016 Jeep Cherokee Headlights Flickering and Cutting Out Randomly

0

Chris P. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:23 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude

Hi everyone,

I'm having a really concerning problem with my 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude. My headlights, both low and high beams, have started flickering on and off intermittently. Sometimes they even cut out completely for a few seconds before coming back on. It's happening to both headlights at the same time, not just one side.

This is obviously a huge safety issue, especially driving at night. It seems to happen randomly, sometimes over bumps, sometimes just on a smooth road. I've checked the bulbs, and they look fine, and I even replaced them with new ones, but the problem persists.

Could this be a wiring issue, a relay, or maybe something with the headlight control module? Any advice or similar experiences would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:23 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The flickering and intermittent cutting out of both headlights on your 2016 Jeep Cherokee Latitude is a serious safety concern and points to a systemic electrical issue rather than just a bulb problem. Since both headlights are affected simultaneously, it's highly unlikely to be individual bulb or wiring issues to each lamp.

Here are the most probable causes:

  1. Headlight Control Module (HCM) / Body Control Module (BCM) Fault: Modern vehicles like your Cherokee use modules to control various electrical functions, including headlights. A failing HCM or BCM can send erratic signals, causing the lights to flicker or cut out. This is a very common point of failure for such symptoms.
  2. Loose Ground Connection: A poor or corroded main ground connection for the headlight circuit can cause intermittent power loss to both lights. Check the main ground points, usually located near the battery or on the chassis/fender wells.
  3. Faulty Headlight Switch/Stalk: While less common for both lights to cut out completely, an internal fault in the headlight switch on the steering column could cause intermittent power delivery.
  4. Wiring Harness Issue: A damaged or corroded section of the main wiring harness that feeds power to both headlights, perhaps where it passes through a firewall or near a moving part, could cause intermittent issues, especially over bumps.
  5. Relay Failure: Some vehicles use relays for headlight circuits. A failing relay could stick or lose connection intermittently. Check your owner's manual or fuse box diagram for the headlight relay location.

When to See a Shop:

  • Given the safety implications, it's highly recommended to have this diagnosed by a professional as soon as possible. Driving at night with this issue is extremely dangerous.
  • A qualified technician will use a multimeter to check for consistent voltage at the headlight connectors and use a scan tool to check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) within the BCM or HCM, even if no dashboard warning lights are on. They can also perform a 'wiggle test' on wiring harnesses to try and replicate the issue and pinpoint loose connections.
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