2022 Defender Headlight Flickering & Adaptive High Beam Fault

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:44 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic

Hi everyone,

I'm experiencing some concerning electrical issues with the headlights on my 2022 Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic. Lately, the headlights have started flickering intermittently, especially noticeable at night. It's not a constant flicker, but more like a brief dimming or stutter.

On top of that, the adaptive high beam assist system has completely stopped working, and I occasionally get a 'Headlight System Fault' message on the dash. I've checked for any visible damage to the headlight assembly or wiring, but everything looks fine from the outside. Has anyone encountered similar problems with their newer Defender models? Could it be a control module or a wiring harness issue? No obvious OBD codes are showing up on my basic scanner.

Thanks for your help!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Headlight flickering and adaptive high beam faults on your 2022 Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic point towards issues within the complex lighting control system, which involves multiple modules and sensors.

Common Causes:

  1. Headlight Control Module (HCM) Fault: Modern LED headlights, especially adaptive ones, are controlled by dedicated modules. A fault within the HCM (sometimes integrated into the headlamp assembly) can cause flickering, errors, and loss of adaptive functions. OBD code B2011 (Headlamp Control Module Fault) is often associated with this.
  2. Wiring Harness Issues: While you've checked for visible damage, intermittent wiring faults (e.g., loose connections, corrosion, or internal wire breaks) can cause flickering. This could be anywhere from the main power supply to the connections at the headlamp unit itself.
  3. Voltage Fluctuations: An unstable voltage supply to the lighting system, possibly due to a weak battery, alternator issues, or a faulty voltage regulator, can cause lights to flicker.
  4. Sensor Malfunction: The adaptive high beam system relies on a forward-facing camera sensor (often located near the rearview mirror) to detect oncoming traffic and adjust beams. A dirty, obstructed, or faulty sensor can disable this feature.
  5. Software Glitch: As with many advanced vehicle systems, a software bug in the Body Control Module (BCM) or HCM can cause erratic behavior.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Battery Health Check: Ensure your vehicle's 12V battery is fully charged and in good health. Low voltage can affect various electronic systems.
  2. Visual Inspection (Detailed): Carefully inspect the connectors going into the back of the headlight assemblies. Look for any signs of corrosion, looseness, or damage.
  3. Check for DTCs (Advanced Scanner): A basic OBD scanner might not pick up specific B-codes or U-codes related to lighting or communication. A professional diagnostic tool can often retrieve more specific fault codes that pinpoint the exact component or module causing the issue.

When to See a Shop:

  • Given the complexity of modern adaptive LED lighting systems, if a simple visual inspection and battery check don't resolve the issue, it's best to consult a Land Rover specialist. They have the necessary diagnostic equipment to read specific module fault codes, test wiring integrity, and determine if a control module needs replacement or if a software update is required. Recalibration of adaptive lighting systems after component replacement is also often necessary.