6 replies to this topic

[Dangleeballs9568]

Hi I have a 1980 Austin Mini 998cc and yesterday the speedometer and the headlights stopped working. Does anyone have any idea what this could be? Everything else electrical is working fine apart from those.

[Stiggytoo]

The speedo is cable driven, has it stopped registering speed or has the backlight stopped working?

[Dangleeballs9568]

It has stopped registering the speed and mileage. Also backlight is not working

[Stiggytoo]

These are two separate issues then. It's likely that the cable for the speedo has snapped so this will need replacing. The headlight issue could be down to the switch or wiring etc, but possibly a fuse.

[Dangleeballs9568]

Ok thanks. I have checked the wire at the back of the speedometer and that seems fine will have to get under the car and check the rest. Would the fuse be one of the 4 in the engine?

[Stiggytoo]

Somebody should correct me if I'm wrong but I think the dipped beam at least should not be affected by blown fuses. This is a safety feature. Saying that, previous owners could have wired them in wrong.
The speedo cable may have an internal break, which could be caused by general wear, or being routed with tight bends etc. It may even have melted on the exhaust. The best way to determine if it is broken is to detach one end and see if the inner cable will pull out.

[Dangleeballs9568]

Maybe it is the wiring because it is a mess from what the previous own has done as the dipped are not working or the back lights. Indicators and hazards are working and so is brake and reverse light it is just the headlights. Ok I will try what you have recommended for the spedometer cable