I have a 08 350z. I bought "used" with just under 8k miles on it back in July (currently just under 19k). I noticed yesterday on my way home that I would be driving with my lows on and my lights would suddenly get less bright. Turns out it happened again today, so I checked it out and it appears that the Bi-Xenon shield is sticking on the passenger side, so when I flip from high to low the drivers side dims, but the passenger side stays on high beams. It will switch if I tap the lens or hit enough of bump to cause it to move.

Has anyone else had this problem or have heard of it? I did a few searches but came up empty handed. In addition, do you think this would be covered under warranty? It can be argued that it is a safety hazard and a defect; I am still under the 3 yr/36k time frame and do have the 6yr/60k warranty. Or would it be possible to access the shield without easily electrocuting myself (high voltage of lamps) or taking it completely apart.

Also, I know the car has a very noisy clutch, but sometimes I hear noises while traveling over small bumps or divets (clutch engaged - 2nd -4th gear - usually around 20 to 40ish). The dealer has double checked that the suspension was tight, and I double checked the wheels. I also jacked it up and crawled under it and jerked stuff around to make sure everything was snug. This noise is very similar to when my Fiero had a broken sway bar end link and I would turn; however, this noise isn't when turning. I am very careful as to avoiding divets/bumps/potholes and driving over rough road slowly, so it is very noticable to me. Normal or not?

Any help would be awesome. Thanks.

 

I'd take the headlight back to the dealer for them to fix it since you still have a warranty. As for your clutch issue I have no opinion since I'd have to hear it in person to know if it's normal or not.

 

Yeah no kidding thats too new a Z for the bixenon shield to be sticking. In fact, that is rare in itself. I've never heard of anyone having that prob... either the solenoid isn't working or there is some electrical issue perhaps. I'd definitely try to get warranty replacement before attempting to tear it open and fix it.

BTW why you using highbeams so much anyway?

 

Welcome.

A short or ground in the lighting system is unusual but happens. Let the dealer fix it.

Very difficult to troubleshoot a noise that I can not hear. Sorry.

 

Thanks everyone for the advice. As far as the noise, I dont' think its a clutch, but I understand not being able to troubleshoot without hearing it.

As far as using my high beams a lot, I live out in the country, so when I drive to work, I usually use high beams (lots of deer) and flip them down when an oncoming car is coming. Isn't that what most people do lol. I mean it's not hurting the bulb life because its the same bulb, the shield just adjusts the level of beam.

 

Cool.... no your right i'm just curious is all. I do the same thing.

Take it back and have the dealer replace the entire headlamp I say. Ask if you can keep the old. Then keep it as a backup or sell it! Lots of guys are brave enough to tear it open and fix the prob which may be minor. But if you got warranty, use it!