I have a recurring problem and would like to hear your thoughts.
Back in 2011 at 122,000 miles, I got the "lamp out" message and one of the headlights was out. The bulb was okay. After some research here (thanks everyone), I figured it was the FCM and replacing it fixed the problem.

Fast forward to today at 176,000 miles. The same problem popped up and replacing the FCM again fixed it.

The first one lasted 6+ years and the second about 5. Since these are expensive, can something be done to make 'em last longer? Does it do anything besides the headlights? Could it be eliminated completely? Is a 5yr life on this part normal?

 

I'm still running the original FCM on my truck (knock on wood).

Are you using OEM or aftermarket FCM's as replacement?

 

Both were OEM. I never thought to check for an aftermarket unit, since the thing seems so specialized.

The truck has spent a lot of time in southern Arizona during the summer over the years. Is the thing getting cooked maybe?

 

Don't know. Maybe the OEM version is built by the lowest bidder now. Are you running higher wattage headlight bulbs? Make sure the electrical connections under the fuse box is clean and free of corrosion.

 

I'm still on my original.