had rats chew through a wire, 2020 cx5. but cant figure out what it does. the wire goes to what appears to be the driver side headlamp. but even disconnected, the headlamp works, foglight, signal, and brights. so not sure what this plug does. any insights?

https://imgur.com/a/LuWwGJw

 

Welcome to the forum

 

That's the wiring to the headlight leveling actuator. It's an odd place for a wire to be chewed, but perhaps the critter was planning to make a nest on top of the headlight and wanted those wires out of the way. I've battled rodents in vehicles over the years, but very fortunately so far none that chewed wires. I'm sure you're aware that there lots of 'buried' wire bundles which, if damaged by rodents, are likely to have a MUCH more serious impact to you than this one did. I hope you're able to find a fast and effective resolution to this problem.

 

ok cool. how do i make sure i actually fixed it? i assume turn the wheel at night with the headlights on and make sure the headlamp moves with the steering wheel?

edit: yes i bought ultrasonic rodent deterrents which i wired under the hood, as well as a sticky thing that emits a smell they dont like (mint oil).

 

That crimp connector job you did looks very good, and I'm sure everything is a-ok. But if you want somewhat of a confirmation, you can test with a meter at the connector. With key on (double start push), you should find 1 pin with 12V (PWR), one definitely at 0V (GND), and the third pin (signal) probably at 0V, although it might possibly have some other voltage, depending on how they designed the system. Or, if you don't want to bother with that, you can just watch how the headlights act, as you said.