Headlights and horn not working:/

[CVCarreiro]

I checked my headlights and the bulbs are fine, then i checked the fuses and they were good. Idk what it could be.

[Seerlah]

Headlight switch?

[CVCarreiro]

What you mean?
i just went back to my car to see whats wrong, and nothing on my steering column is working

[Seerlah]

What do you mean nothing on your sterring column is working? Turn signals, headlights, etc? I mean your actual headlight stalk could be faulty.

[CVCarreiro]

Yea my wipers dont work, turn signals etc... the only thing that does work are my corners and high beams but i have to hold it...ohhh ok

[walky_talky20]

I swear one of these threads comes up once every 2 weeks.

The ignition switch has failed. Thus the headlamp switch is not getting switched power (explains no low or high beams), and the load reduction relay is not getting power either (explains wipers, blower, turn signals, etc).

I know what you next question is, "But if the headlamp switch isn't getting power, then why do my parking lights and flash-to-pass still work?".

And the answer to that is...because I said so. The real answer is because those functions rely on a *constant* power source which does not run through the ignition switch. Thus the failure of the ignition switch does not impede those particular functions.

I'm not saying that you should replace your ignition switch. I'm saying you should test yours and replace it if it has failed.

FYI, there was a recall on this switch for the early A4's. But I believe only half of the 98 model year is covered. Or maybe it was 99. Don't know, anyway you can call Audi of America and they can run the VIN for you. However, the likelihood of you getting free stuff from Audi is quite low some 13 years later.

[CVCarreiro]

Thank you, that actually makes alot of sense