Weird Headlight and CEL Issue

[casper35404]

Hello everyone. It's great to be a part of this forum and be a proud owner or a P5. I thought I was going crazy driving down the road, but I thought I noticed my headlights dim. I found out that I wasn't going crazy nor was I already crazy. My headlights really were dimming. After a few tests I found out that they were dimming whenever my A/C compressor turned on. Has anybody had this problem before? If so, is there a way to fix it? Also, on a seperate note, my check engine light is on. I took it to a local shop that connected a diagnostics machine to it and returned a "Cat not warm" code. Would that indicate that I need to get a new catalytic converter or something else? Thanks to all for any help that I can get!

 

[njaremka]

first, what was the actual number code that was pulled? we should be able to help out with the code number.

headlight dimming is common on the protege's. seems the headlight wiring is a little weak. you could probably remedy it by upgrading the stock wiring to a relay system that pulls power right from the battery.

 

[ghettoracingkid]

the code they pulled about the cat should be a

p0421.

the dimming is the harness as stated above. If its really low check your alternator. it might not be giving you the juice you need.