Author Topic: 1/2 instrument cluster back light out (Read 3025 times)

Montanvs · « **on:** July 06, 2010, 09:36:33 PM »

Just wondering if anyone else has had an issue with the instrument cluster back lights? Mine has half a side (right side) that does not go on......well sometimes it does. Usually a tap on the dashboard lights it up fully.

It clearly is not the bulbs. Loose connector?

jscribble · « **Reply #1 on:** July 06, 2010, 09:44:31 PM »

Same deal for me. I like feeling like the fonz though.

DesktopDave · « **Reply #2 on:** July 07, 2010, 11:48:41 AM »

The three main bulbs share a pair of strip contacts that run across the back of the dash plate. The three larger sockets unscrew and will accept a replacement wedge bulb. Replace all three while you're in there, it's a pretty tedious job...especially if you still have an airbag.

Montanvs · « **Reply #3 on:** July 10, 2010, 08:04:27 PM »

since the bulbs seem to still work is it possible that some sort of corrosion has made the strip contacts intermittent? The bulbs clearly still work at this point.

I dont have an airbag steering wheel, so should be easier to replace.

jscribble · « **Reply #4 on:** July 10, 2010, 08:23:49 PM »

It's just a bit time consuming, and while you have it all apart, it would be a good time to replace these bulbs. It's a few bucks vs a few hours of work if one goes out a week after you clean up the sockets.