1987-1988 Dodge Colt Headlight Delay Relay: A Practical Guide
If your Colt's headlights are acting up, the small and inexpensive delay relay is often the culprit.
- A failing headlight delay relay is a common issue on older cars, causing problems like flickering, dimness, or total headlight failure.
- Before replacing the relay, check fuses and especially the headlight ground wires, as bad grounds are a known issue on these cars.
- Aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition and Rostra are reliable and affordable choices for this part; OEM is unavailable.
- Replacement is extremely easy for DIYers; the relay simply plugs into a socket, usually under the dash or in the engine bay fuse box.
Symptoms of a Failing Headlight Delay Relay in a Dodge Colt
A failing headlight delay relay on a 1987 or 1988 Colt will cause noticeable issues with your lighting. Because this is an older vehicle, electrical components like relays can wear out from heat and age. You might hear a rapid clicking sound from under the dashboard when you try to turn the lights on. Other common signs include:
- Headlights won't turn on: This is the most obvious symptom. If the relay fails completely, it won't send power to the headlights.
- Flickering headlights: If the relay's internal parts are worn, it can make and break the electrical connection rapidly, causing the lights to flicker.
- Dim headlights: A faulty relay might not deliver full voltage to the bulbs, making them appear dimmer than usual.
- High or low beams don't work: The relay has separate contacts for high and low beams. It's possible for one function to fail while the other still works.
Check Grounds and Fuses First
For these older Colts and their Mitsubishi Mirage siblings, headlight problems are often caused by bad ground connections. Before replacing the relay, check that the main headlight fuses are good and that the ground wires near the headlights are clean and tight. This can save you from replacing a part that isn't broken.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Relay
For a vehicle like the 1987-1988 Colt, finding an original equipment (OEM) part from Dodge is nearly impossible. The good news is that aftermarket relays are available, affordable, and get the job done. The two main brands you will find are Standard Motor Products (Standard Ignition) and Rostra Powertrain.
- Standard Motor Products (SMP): Standard is a very old and well-known aftermarket brand. For decades, they have been a go-to for quality replacement electrical parts. While their manufacturing has moved globally, their standard line of parts is considered reliable for daily use. For a simple part like a relay, their product is a dependable choice.
- Rostra Powertrain: Rostra is another established manufacturer, known for making quality electronic components and holding high-quality certifications for their facilities. They are a reputable supplier for many aftermarket parts, and their relays are a solid option.
Pro Tip: Given the low cost of this part (under $25), there is no significant quality difference between these two brands for this specific relay. Both are considered reliable replacements. Choose based on price and availability.
Cost to Replace a Headlight Delay Relay
| Part Type | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $12.00 - $23.29 | Readily available from brands like Standard and Rostra. This is the most practical option. |
| New OEM | Not Available | This part is no longer produced by the original manufacturer. |
| Used OEM | $10 - $30 | Possible to find at junkyards, but you risk getting a part that is also near the end of its life. |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 | A mechanic can replace this part very quickly, usually in under 30 minutes. Most of the cost is the minimum labor charge. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the headlight delay relay located on a 1987-1988 Dodge Colt?
On many vehicles from this era, relays like this are found in a fuse/relay box under the hood or under the dashboard near the steering column. Check your owner's manual for a diagram. If you don't have one, look for a small, cube-shaped component, often plugged into a socket in one of these two areas.
Can I drive my Colt with a bad headlight delay relay?
If your headlights do not work at all, it is illegal and unsafe to drive at night or in poor visibility conditions. If the only symptom is flickering or a non-functional delay feature, you can drive, but you should get it fixed immediately for safety.
Are there any recalls for the 1987-1988 Dodge Colt headlights?
No specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for the headlight delay relay on the 1987-1988 Dodge Colt were found during the search. Recalls found were for much newer vehicles and different issues.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
No, this is a very easy DIY job. The relay is a plug-and-play component. Once you locate it, you simply pull the old one out and plug the new one in. No special tools are required.
Technical Specifications
12-volt, plug-in style relay. Aftermarket parts may come with a new mounting bracket.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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