Need advice: Headlight switch carbon buildup/failing after installing aftermarket LEDs on Kia Picanto
Hey everyone, I’m looking for some advice or permanent solutions regarding a headlight issue on my Kia Picanto.
Because the factory halogen lights were too dim for clear visibility, I upgraded to aftermarket 55W Aux LEDs (with the external driver/CANbus).
They were working great, but recently the headlights completely stopped working. I took it to an official Kia dealership, and the technician opened up the steering column and found carbon/soot buildup on the headlight trigger handle/switch contacts. He scraped it clean, and the lights started working again. The technician told me to remove the LEDs because they would "melt the copper," but I really need the brighter visibility and don't want to go back to stock.
Now, the problem is coming back. A few days ago, the lights turned off completely for about 2 hours, and then miraculously started working again on their own. It seems like the switch contacts are overheating and failing again.
Has anyone else faced this exact issue with carbon buildup on the headlight stalk after installing LEDs in their Picanto?
What is the best permanent solution for this? I've been reading that installing a plug-and-play H4 Headlight Relay Harness directly to the battery might fix the heavy electrical draw and save the switch. Has anyone done this? Will I need to replace the indicator stalk completely as well?
Would appreciate any advice or recommendations, especially from anyone who has successfully run heavy LEDs without frying their switch! Thanks!