Dashboard light failure

[Tiamat]

Dashboard lights have failed on the main console, but the light for the rear demister still lights up.

I have checked all fuses, changed relays in the driver's footwell fusebox and they still don't work.

Any thoughts before I dismantle the console?

[jimi]

Have you checked the dimmer isn't turned right down ?

[Tiamat]

Have you checked the dimmer isn't turned right down ?

Yes I did. Even tried some percussive maintenance on it.

I did wonder if the dimmer was faulty and that was why.

I think it will be a console out job.

[jimi]

Are the lights / dimmer still working on the Clock, Heater controls and Ashtray ? ie is it just the instrument cluster that isn't working ?

[Tiamat]

Clock lights up, doesn't dim.

Ashtray isn't fitted so can't be checked.

Lights have stopped working on the centre console as well.

I am hoping its a loose connection at the dimmer switch.

[jimi]

Sounds like it, all the aforementioned are controlled through the dimmer.

[Tiamat]

Sounds like it, all the aforementioned are controlled through the dimmer.

I thought that, it will be the second repair on it.

It has taken a bit of a toll with the ruddy speed bumps near work. I think my repair might have come loose.

[Tiamat]

Loose connection somewhere. It came on the other day then dropped out when I hit a speed bump. I get my other car back on Saturday so I can spend some time taking apart.

Does anyone know whether you can bypass the dimmer switch part? I can see one wire going in and one wire coming out. Was thinking to bridge that and it might sort out the connection.

[jimi]

Linking the 2 wires will eliminate the dimmer, but will only help if the loose connection in in the dimmer.

[Tiamat]

Linking the 2 wires will eliminate the dimmer, but will only help if the loose connection in in the dimmer.

Its process of elimination, I can always solder them back on.

[jemehan]

I know this answer, mine does this sparadically, a firm tap on the top of the switch arm on the console fixes it. The light toggle is where the problem is, just replace the swtich on the console and your problem will be resolved... it is annoying until fixed though!

[Tiamat]

I know this answer, mine does this sparadically, a firm tap on the top of the switch arm on the console fixes it. The light toggle is where the problem is, just replace the swtich on the console and your problem will be resolved... it is annoying until fixed though!

Thanks, I have tried percussive maintenance and it has not worked.

To be honest I haven't used the thing at night for ages so its not made a difference, but I will be doing a proper dismantle shortly.