I posted this in the XK8 section, but it got no responses. So I thought I'd try it here.

I just bought a 2005 XK8 and I am having problems with the auto headlights not working. I don't think I have a sensor or wiring issue as I can hear the relay click at the right time and the interior lights dim too. But the headlights do not come on. Instead the dash display says "LIGHTS ARE OFF". A true staement, but they should be on. Any thoughts?

 

That message comes on when the auto-lights function wants to turn on the lights, but "Off" rather than "Auto" is set on the lights switch. This is the left hand stalk on the steering column. Auto-lights can only work if the driver sets it to work automatically, as one can still turn them on and off yourself. In some situations I prefer to turn my lights on and off myself, such as going along country roads with ocasional stretches with trees over head when the lights keep switching on and off all the time.

 

That makes sense. But in my case it only happens when I have the light switch set to Auto.

 

I think you have a failed switch stalk [Headlamp Switch], or a broken wire in the steering column that is keeping the switch from signaling the body processor when "Auto" is selected. Sometimes the in/out and up/down movement of the column can cause a wire to break.

Happy hunting!