Replacement of instrument lighting lamps, control lamps and indicators is resorted to in the event of their malfunction or, if desired, to change their color. Before performing this operation yourself, read the instructions for car repair. Pay attention to design considerations for access to lamps and indicators, as well as their markings and specifications.
Necessary
- - screwdrivers with flat and cross-shaped blades;
- - a new light bulb;
- - tweezers.
Instructions
Step 1
Disconnect the positive cable from the battery before starting work. If you have an adjustable steering column, push it down until it stops. If the column is not adjustable, you may need to disassemble its lining.
Step 2
Unscrew the screws securing the instrument panel. Remove the instrument panel. If it is difficult to remove the shield, do not use a screwdriver to help yourself. Carefully inspect the grooves formed and locate the internal panel fastening clips. Release these latches. On some older foreign cars, you will have to remove the entire front panel to access the instrument lamps.
Step 3
Control units (e.g. mirrors) may be located around the instrument panel. They also need to be dismantled so as not to interfere. Unscrew the fasteners of the instrument cluster. Turning this combination with the top towards you, remove it.
Step 4
Disconnect all wiring harnesses from the instrument cluster. They can be secured with connectors or brackets with screws. Pay attention to small details when performing this operation.
Step 5
Using tweezers, turn the bulb holder counterclockwise to remove the bulb from its socket. Remove the filter from the lamp, if installed. Some lamps may be located under the dielectric plate on the instrument cluster. Remove the screws securing this plate to gain access to the rest of the lamps.
Step 6
Instead of lamps under the dielectric plate, LED indicators can be installed, soldered into a printed circuit board. To replace them with a soldering iron, desolder the indicator light and solder a new one. If you don't have any soldering skills, entrust this operation to a familiar radio amateur or specialists from the technical center.
Step 7
Read carefully the labels on the replacement lamp, diode or indicator. Install a new lamp with the same specifications as the lamp you are replacing. In particular, installing a higher wattage lamp can melt plastic parts or a printed circuit board around it over time.
Step 8
Check all installed lamps and indicators before assembly. Assemble the instrument panel and refit it. Check the operation of the lamps and indicators by connecting the battery.
