HomeElectrical, Lighting and Body > SwitchesStandard Ignition DS-496 Headlight Dimmer Switch
Part #: DS-496

Standard Ignition DS-496 Headlight Dimmer Switch

⚙️ 19 vehicles fit this part
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OE Direct Replacement — Bolt-on fit, no modifications needed
🚗Fitment: Lincoln, Ford, and Mercury, Mark VII, Town Car, Thunderbird, Continental, and Cougar
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Reliable Headlight Dimmer Switch for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury

The Standard Ignition DS-496 headlight dimmer switch is designed to provide consistent and precise control of your vehicle's headlight functions. Engineered for select Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury models, this switch ensures proper operation of your headlights and turn signals.

  • Direct bolt-on attachment method for secure installation
  • Durable cast iron and plastic finish in silver and yellow
  • Includes latching high beam and momentary high beam flasher operators
  • Equipped with two female rectangular connectors and 11 male blade terminals
  • Compatible with 12-volt electrical systems
  • Turn signal control functionality included

Product Details and Specifications

The DS-496 headlight dimmer switch from Standard Ignition is a new replacement part designed specifically for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles including the Continental, Cougar, Mark VII, Thunderbird, and Town Car models. This switch features a bolt-on attachment method, ensuring a secure and straightforward installation process. The switch housing is constructed from cast iron and plastic, finished in silver and yellow for durability and corrosion resistance.

It includes two female rectangular connectors with 11 male blade terminals, supporting reliable electrical connections. The switch supports 12-volt systems and integrates turn signal control, latching high beam operation, and momentary high beam flasher functions. This part does not include cruise control or fog light operators, focusing solely on headlight and turn signal control.

Compatible Vehicles and Applications

  • Ford Continental
  • Ford Cougar
  • Lincoln Mark VII
  • Mercury Thunderbird
  • Lincoln Town Car

This headlight dimmer switch is ideal for replacing faulty or worn switches that cause issues with headlight dimming, high beam operation, or turn signal control in the above vehicles.

Common Issues Addressed by DS-496 Headlight Dimmer Switch

  • Intermittent or non-functioning high beam operation
  • Failure of turn signal controls integrated with the dimmer switch
  • Inability to switch between low and high beam headlights
  • Loose or faulty electrical connections causing lighting malfunctions
  • Wear and tear from extended use leading to switch failure

Installation Notes and Tips

Installation of the Standard Ignition DS-496 headlight dimmer switch requires removal of the steering column covers to access the existing switch. The bolt-on attachment method allows for a secure fit without modification. Ensure all electrical connectors are properly seated and terminals are clean before installation. Verify compatibility with your vehicle’s 12-volt system and test all headlight and turn signal functions after installation.

Quality Assurance and Warranty

The DS-496 is a new, high-quality replacement part manufactured by Standard Ignition, a trusted name in automotive electrical components. It is built to meet or exceed OEM specifications for durability and performance. Standard Ignition typically offers a limited warranty on their electrical parts; please refer to the product documentation for specific warranty details.

BrandStandard Ignition
Part NumberDS-496
Attachment MethodBolt On
ColorSilver, Yellow
Connector GenderFemale
Connector ShapeRectangular
Cruise Control Cancel IncludedNo
Cruise Control On/Off Operator IncNo
Cruise Control Resume IncludedNo
Cruise Control Set IncludedNo
Cruise Control Speed Adjustment InNo
DisplayedYes
FinishCast Iron, Plastic
Fog Light Operator IncludedNo
Indicator Markings IncludedNo
Latching High Beam Operator IncludYes
Main Light Operator IncludedNo
Momentary High Beam Flasher IncludYes
New or RemanNew
Number Of Connector Cavities2
Rear Window Washer Spray IncludedNo
Rear Window Wiper Delay Control InNo
Rear Window Wiper Speed Setting InNo
Running Light Operator IncludedNo
Terminal GenderMale
Terminal TypeBlade
Turn Signal Control IncludedYes
Turn Signal/Directional IndicatorNo
Voltage12
Windshield Washer Spray IncludedNo
Windshield Wiper Delay Setting IncNo
Windshield Wiper Speed Setting IncNo

This part fits 19 vehicles. Search below:

YearMakeModelPositionNotes
1989LincolnMark VIIN/A
1989LincolnTown CarN/A
1988FordThunderbirdN/A
1988LincolnContinentalN/A
1988LincolnMark VIIN/A
1988LincolnTown CarN/A
1988MercuryCougarN/A
1987FordThunderbirdN/A
1987LincolnContinentalN/A
1987LincolnMark VIIN/A
1987LincolnTown CarN/A
1987MercuryCougarN/A
1986FordThunderbirdN/A
1986LincolnContinentalN/A
1986LincolnMark VIIN/A
1986LincolnTown CarN/A
1985LincolnContinentalN/A
1985LincolnMark VIIN/A
1985LincolnTown CarN/A

* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.

This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:

1S48685211353-1701088923970CS206DS175DS185E5LY13341ASM74FUDS461

Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.