1996 Dodge Dakota No Headlights or Tailights

A mechanic would check for voltage from the key switch at the starter solenoid. If the starter will jump and crank, it could be the neutral safety switch or the key switch, or a problem with the battery cables.

dodge uses a computer module in drivers kickpanel that send the power to all the headlights, taillights, amd dash lights. pull computer plugs out and look for corrosion, this is common. if corroded the clean it all away andreplace module

Your headlight switch needs to be replaced. Here's the section from the maintenance manual.

Headlight Switch REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

1996 Dakota

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the steering column cover and remove the instrument panel bezel. Two screws are hidden behind the steering column cover.
3. Remove the screws from the headlight switch bezel, pull the assembly out and disconnect the wiring.
4. Remove the nut retaining the bezel to the bracket. Depress the spring button on the right side of the switch and remove the headlight switch knob and stem.
5. Remove the spanner nut and remove the switch.
6. The installation is the reverse of the removal procedure.

check for a loose ground wiring at the headlight harness. They are usually located on both sides of the body with two or three black wires bolted to the body. Also check for loose battery cables.

it could have been that you blew the fuse for the low beam headlights ...just check the fuse box under the hood

try disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes. Then if you have a remote lock, lock and unlock three times in a row as this will often reset the computer. Or, borrow a code reader from one of the parts stores and see what codes are stored. Once you have the code, go online and Google it.

There is a ground cable that attaches to the back of the engine and to the body, make sure its still attached. It will be about a foot long braided cable.
Good luck dont forget to rate

Check if the cables are the right way around (positive on positive/red and negative on negative/black). Make sure that the grounding clamp has no insulation to the metal (paint or similar).

Most likley the dimmer switch. I replaced those switches in many of my past vehicals that headlights were flashing ( on & off ). It's the connection inside the switch that wears out causing it heat up ( causing the on-off-on ). Hope this is helpfull.

a bad crank sensor or dist pickup plate can cause this.... check the fuses in the fuse block under the hood for any blown ..... a bad auto shut down relay may cause it .....try putting a test light on the green and orange wire and see if it lights up when you try to crank it