Problem with Dash Lights

[ashack44]

I cant get my dash lights to turn on. I replaced the light switch. Then I checked out all my fuses and then just got done replacing the bulbs. Is there a relay or something that I'm missing?

 

[OneLever]

You replaced the headlamp switch on the left side of the dash? The dash lights are tied into your parking lamps so if the Park lamp relay goes bad you'll know.

 

[ashack44]

Yup thats the first thing I did.

 

[OneLever]

Check all the interior fuse panel fuses again with a flashlight. Are the parking lamps out as well? Or do they come on and the dash ones alone don't.

 

[ashack44]

The Parking lights work. I used a multimeter to check the all the fuses. I even went through the owners manual checking fuses and manuals. I'm stumped!!

 

[ashack44]

only the dash lights dont work

 

[OneLever]

A few more questions that might seem obvious to narrow it down:

1. Did they all work before and just now went out? The bulbs do go out from time to time and have to be replaced.

2. Move the dimmer switch wheel up and down. See if it's got a loose connection or if it was turned all the way down by accident.

 

[ashack44]

Yes they all worked before and the dash lights just went out. I already bought new bulbs and replaced them with the same nonworking result. I also replaced the dimmer switch as well and Tested the up and down wheel motions with both.

 

[OneLever]

A few more:

3. Are the center console illumination bulbs around the radio working or are they off as well?

4. Do the dash gauges work correctly other than not being illuminated?

5. If you turn the dimmer switch all the way up do the interior dome lights come on?

 

[ashack44]

3. I gotta check that
4. Yes
5. Yes, On and Off

 

[OneLever]

Update on question #3? It's relevant to any further suggestions.

 

[ashack44]

Sorry. Its working.

 

[ashack44]

I mean Yes to number 3.

 

[OneLever]

There are differences in wiring between a 1997 and 2000. So this may not apply to you, but I'll offer it anyways.

In a 1997 one wire (Red/Black) goes from the dimmer switch and powers both the Rear defrost switch illumination, Rear wiper illumination, Fog light switch illumination, and the Instrument panel illumination. All of those are also grounded through the same Black wire.

Since the former are working it would seem that you should look at the circuit board traces on the back of the instrument cluster. The plastic film they are on becomes brittle and warps. Check for continuity along the traces that lead to the illumination bulbs and look for breaks in them. Also check for loose wires at the electrical connectors for the instrument cluster.

 

[ashack44]

Thanks for the info. I'll check tomorrow.

 

[NUFX]

There are differences in wiring between a 1997 and 2000. So this may not apply to you, but I'll offer it anyways.

In a 1997 one wire (Red/Black) goes from the dimmer switch and powers both the Rear defrost switch illumination, Rear wiper illumination, Fog light switch illumination, and the Instrument panel illumination. All of those are also grounded through the same Black wire.

Since the former are working it would seem that you should look at the circuit board traces on the back of the instrument cluster. The plastic film they are on becomes brittle and warps. Check for continuity along the traces that lead to the illumination bulbs and look for breaks in them. Also check for loose wires at the electrical connectors for the instrument cluster.

Thanks also for that info. Been meaning to take notes on them dimmer switches. Will work on them this weekend.

 

[ashack44]

OK its looking like I gotta replace the circuit board on the back of the cluster. Will check in this weekend (if its warm enough) with the results. Thx for the help I'll check with you as soon as possible.

 

[OneLever]

OK its looking like I gotta replace the circuit board on the back of the cluster.

Did you check the old board before deciding to buy a new one? I'm just trying to help you troubleshoot. I don't know for sure that your problem is being caused by that.

 

[ashack44]

yup I pulled the dash apart and checked the board. Did my continuity tests on the board and found a break. I might not buy a new one and take my chances with a board from the junkyard.

 

[OneLever]

Or find someone who knows how perform electrical soldering and repair the break.