Where Is the Headlight Sensor Located?

Reviewed by

Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on November 13th, 2023

Reading Time: 2 minutes
Summary
  • If your vehicle has a headlight sensor, you can find it on the windshield next to the rain sensor or the dash near the windshield edge.
  • The headlight sensor supports the driver’s field of vision by automatically adjusting or turning the headlights on.
  • Look for a circular lens on the windshield, behind the rearview mirror, or on the dashboard near the windshield edge.

Q: Where Is the Headlight Sensor Typically Located?

A: If your car has a headlight sensor, it could be on the windshield next to the rain sensor (behind the rearview mirror) or on the dash near the windshield edge. The location differs depending on the model, as some vehicles don’t even have one.

The headlight sensor supports the driver’s field of vision by automatically adjusting or turning the headlights on when it’s getting too dark outside. It can also turn off the headlights to conserve battery life.

One way to tell if your car has a headlight sensor is to determine whether the headlights automatically turn on or off in response to the environment’s lighting conditions.

Pro Tips are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.

Pro Tip: Some headlight sensors only turn on the lights when it gets dark, but the more sophisticated systems will dim the lights when the sensor detects the headlights of oncoming vehicles at night. 2000s vintage GM pickups have a light sensor that will turn on the daytime running lights automatically. This sensor is in the middle of the dash at the base of the windshield. Many ambient light sensors are mounted in the same spot.

Tips on How to Access the Headlight Sensor

Because the sensor needs to detect the road, it’s usually located in plain sight. Check the windshield for something circular that resembles the lenses of your camera’s phone. If it’s not there, check behind the rearview mirror or on the dashboard near the windshield edge.

If your windshield is chipped, assuming the sensor is located there, replacing the sensor isn’t always necessary. However, if the crack is significant, then it might be best to replace the sensor, along with any technology systems attached to the windshield.

You can also check the attached wiring to make sure it’s not damaged or if you want to replace the sensor. Remove the radio and look for the wires that have foam around them for access.

About The Authors
Reviewed By Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Richard McCuistian has worked for nearly 50 years in the automotive field as a professional technician, an instructor, and a freelance automotive writer for Motor Age, ACtion magazine, Power Stroke Registry, and others. Richard is ASE certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.

Written By CarParts.com Research Team

Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

Share
Published by
CarParts.com Research Team and Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician