1993-1994 Chrysler Concorde Headlight Delay Relay Guide
Having trouble with your Concorde's headlights? The small, easy-to-replace headlight delay relay could be the culprit.
- The correct part name is 'Headlight Delay Relay', not 'Headlight Motor Relay'.
- Symptoms include headlights staying on, not turning on, or flickering.
- Replacement is an extremely easy DIY task; the relay is a plug-and-play part in a fuse box.
- Before buying, swap the relay with an identical one from another system (like the horn) to confirm it's the faulty part.
Symptoms of a Failing Headlight Relay
First-generation Chrysler Concordes are known for electrical quirks, and headlight issues are common. Before you suspect complex wiring problems, check the headlight delay relay. Because it's a simple switch, it can fail in the 'on' or 'off' position, causing confusing symptoms.
- Headlights Won't Turn Off: This is the most urgent symptom. If the relay gets stuck in the closed ('on') position, it will continuously send power to the headlights, draining your battery.
- Headlights Won't Turn On: If the relay fails in the open ('off') position, it cannot complete the circuit to power the headlights, leaving you without lights.
- Flickering or Intermittent Headlights: A failing relay can provide unstable power, causing the headlights to flicker, dim, or cut out while you're driving. This is a major safety hazard at night.
- Headlight Delay Feature Stops Working: The most direct symptom is when the courtesy light-off feature simply stops working, and your headlights turn off immediately with the switch.
Check Fuses First
Always check the related fuses in the power distribution center under the hood and the interior fuse panel before replacing any parts. A simple blown fuse can mimic relay failure.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Relay
For a vehicle like the 1993-1994 Concorde, finding original equipment (OEM) parts from Chrysler is highly unlikely. The aftermarket is your primary source for a new headlight delay relay.
Brand Quality: Standard Ignition
Standard Ignition (also known as Standard Motor Products or SMP) is a well-regarded aftermarket brand. Their parts are manufactured in certified facilities and are designed to meet or exceed original specifications. For an electrical part like a relay, using a quality brand like Standard is a reliable choice to ensure proper function and durability.
Pro Tip: Confirm the Failure
Your Concorde's fuse boxes contain several identical relays for different systems (like the horn or A/C). You can temporarily swap the suspect headlight relay with a known good, identical relay from a non-critical system. If the headlights start working correctly and the other system stops working, you've confirmed the relay is the problem. This is a free and effective diagnostic step.
Replacement Cost
Replacing the headlight delay relay is one of the most affordable repairs you can perform. The part itself is inexpensive, and because it's a simple plug-in component, professional installation is very quick.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Relay (e.g., Standard Ignition) | $12.00 - $23.29 |
| Shop Labor | $25 - $50 |
| Total Estimated Cost (DIY) | $12.00 - $23.29 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the headlight delay relay located on a 1993-1994 Concorde?
The relay is typically found in one of two places: the Power Distribution Center (the main fuse box) under the hood, or an interior relay panel located under the dashboard, often to the right of the steering column. Check your owner's manual or the diagram on the fuse box lid to identify the correct relay.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
No, this is a very easy DIY job suitable for any skill level. It requires no special tools. Simply locate the old relay, pull it straight out of its socket, and plug the new one in. It should take less than 15 minutes.
Are there any recalls for this issue?
No, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Chrysler or the NHTSA for a failing headlight delay relay on the 1993-1994 Concorde.
My lights are still flickering after replacing the relay. What else could it be?
If a new relay doesn't solve the problem, the issue could be the multi-function headlight switch on the steering column, a poor ground connection, or a problem with the wiring harness itself. Given the age of the vehicle, electrical connections can corrode and cause issues.
Technical Specifications
Standard Aftermarket Part Number: RY115. This is a common 12V, 30-amp, 5-pin multi-purpose relay.
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.
- Chrysler Concorde: