Problem with Dash Lights

[MVisbal]

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.

OK, I have a 1995 Explorer XLT. No dash illumination or switch illumination around the radio. On the 1995 is the red/black ground wire off of the dimmer switch the same as the 1997 that you described in this thread?
Thanks,
Mark

 

[OneLever]

Welcome to the forum MVisbal!

I have no idea if the wiring is the same for a 1995. However I will say that since you have all the dash lights out, unlike ashack44 your problem may be different. Check to make sure your parking lights are coming on first, and all the fuses are good with a flashlight.

 

[MVisbal]

Parking lights work, fuses are good. Yesterday the dash came on for about 5 - 6 seconds when I turned on the headlights. I turned them off, waited a few seconds and when I turned the headlights on again the dash lights lit for about 2 seconds. I am thinking this is either a bad switch or dimmer. My money is on the switch, but if I am going to tear the dash apart, you best believe I will replace both!

Thanks,
Mark

 

[OneLever]

I am thinking this is either a bad switch or dimmer. My money is on the switch, but if I am going to tear the dash apart, you best believe I will replace both!

You don't have to take the instrument cluster off to get the instrument cluster flush (trim) panel off which the headlamp and dimmer switch are attached to. It can be taken off and re-installed in less than an hour for a newcomer.

Here is a write up on removing the instrument cluster flush panel which goes on to remove the instrument cluster. He does this to replace the instrument cluster illumination bulbs, but you don't need to go that far. Note that you do not actually need a radio removal tool, since it will pull out along with the center console bezel: Link 1

Here is a second write up on converting the headlamp switch illumination bulb to LEDs. You likely didn't know that bulb existed since it burns out quickly: Link 2

 

[MVisbal]

I thank you!
So far, most of the work I've done on this vehicle is very straight forward. I had to take out and spray the flasher/blinker relay under the dash with contact cleaner. This was only complicated by the fact that the sunroof has leaked and one of the bolts broke off as I was trying to loosen it (some rust back there).
I will get on this tomorrow. I appreciate the links.
M

 

[OneLever]

You're welcome. This forum builds on people helping each other out.