1986-1989 Honda Accord Column Switch: Fixing Flickering Headlights & Faulty Signals

Symptoms of a Failing Column Switch

Failure of the column switch in the 1986-1989 Honda Accord is common due to age and wear on its internal electrical contacts. Symptoms usually start intermittently and worsen over time. You might notice problems are more frequent in cold weather or when hitting bumps in the road.

Headlight and Dash Light Problems

• Flickering or Dim Headlights: Headlights may flicker, dim, or cut out entirely while driving. This is often caused by worn or corroded contacts inside the switch.
• Headlights On, But Dash/Tail Lights Off: A very common symptom is being able to turn on the headlights, but the dashboard lights, parking lights, and tail lights fail to illuminate. This happens because different sets of contacts control these circuits, and one set can fail while the other still works.
• Needing to 'Jiggle' the Switch: You may find that you have to wiggle or find a “sweet spot” on the headlight knob to get all the lights to work correctly. This is a clear sign of internal wear.

Turn Signal and Hazard Light Issues

• Turn Signals Don't Work: Activating the lever results in no response—no clicking sound and no flashing indicator on the dash or exterior bulb.
• Intermittent Operation: The signals may work sometimes but not others, often requiring you to fiddle with the lever to get them to activate.
• Signals Don't Cancel: The mechanical part of the switch that cancels the signal after a turn can break, requiring you to manually turn the signal off every time.
• Hazard Lights Work but Turn Signals Don't: If the four-way flashers work but the individual turn signals do not, it often points directly to a fault in the combination switch rather than the flasher relay.

Windshield Wiper Malfunctions

• Wipers Stop Mid-Swing: When you turn the wipers off, they may stop immediately wherever they are on the windshield instead of returning to their “parked” position at the base of the glass.
• Some Speeds Don't Work: The intermittent, low, or high-speed settings may stop functioning while others still work.
• Wipers Only Work When Holding the Lever: The 'mist' function might work, but the wipers stop as soon as you release the lever, even in a continuous mode.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of mid-2026, there are no specific NHTSA safety recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the column switch on 1986-1989 Honda Accords. However, the part is widely known in owner forums to be a common failure point due to age. The primary cause of failure is wear and corrosion on the internal copper contacts, which can sometimes be temporarily resolved by disassembling the switch and cleaning them. Recalls for this generation of Accord were issued for other components, such as seat belt buckles and fuel systems, but not the electrical combination switch.

Buying a Used 1986-1989 Accord Column Switch

Given that new OEM switches are largely discontinued and can be expensive if found, a quality used OEM part is often the best solution. Aftermarket switches are available but may not have the same tactile feel or long-term durability as the original Honda parts.

1. Verify Compatibility and Part Numbers

This is the most critical step. Honda used several different combination switches during this generation, with variations based on year, trim level (DX, LX, LXi), and body style (coupe, sedan). Using the wrong switch can lead to fitment issues where the steering column covers don't go back on correctly, or the stalks are too close to the steering wheel. One owner reported that a switch from an '89 model did not fit correctly in an '86.

Before buying, match the part number from your original switch to the replacement. The part number is typically stamped on the plastic housing. Common part numbers include 35250-SE0-A01, 35250-SE0-A16, and 35250-SE3-A21, but many others exist. If you can't find a part number, match the year and trim level of the donor car to your own.

2. Physical Inspection

• Check the Stalks: Ensure the turn signal and wiper stalks are not cracked, bent, or broken off. This is a common point of damage.
• Inspect the Connectors: Look at the electrical connector plugs and pins. Avoid any switch with melted plastic, heavy corrosion, or bent pins, as this indicates a more serious electrical issue.
• Test the Feel: Operate the knobs and levers. They should move smoothly and click into each position with a positive feel. A loose, mushy, or gritty feel suggests internal wear.
• Examine the Lettering: Check that the white lettering on the stalks is clear and not worn away, which helps ensure you're getting a lower-mileage or well-cared-for part.

Replacement Overview & Difficulty

Replacing the combination switch is a feasible DIY project for those with basic tools and patience.

• Difficulty: 2/5 (if steering wheel removal is not required), 3.5/5 (if steering wheel removal is required).
• Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours.
• Tools Needed: Phillips head screwdriver, socket set (if removing steering wheel), steering wheel puller (potentially).

Basic Replacement Steps:

1. Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical components.
2. Remove Steering Column Covers: Remove the screws from the bottom of the plastic clamshell cover around the steering column and separate the top and bottom halves.
3. Unplug Electrical Connectors: Carefully unplug the wiring harnesses connected to the back of the switch assembly.
4. Remove the Switch: The switch assembly is typically held to the steering column with two or more Phillips head screws. Remove them and slide the entire assembly off.
5. Installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. Plug in the new switch to test its function before reassembling the column covers.

Note: On some models or for certain repairs, the steering wheel must be removed to gain access. This involves removing the horn pad and a large central nut, and may require a steering wheel puller. These vehicles do not have airbags, which simplifies the process compared to newer cars.

Cost Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)