Instrument Cluster Illumination

[Chukka]

My speedometer LCD is working (numbers are displayed) but is not properly illuminated. The LCD consoles on the sides are working fine and are illuminated.

1. I've read that the LCDs are illuminated by 3 bulbs in the rear of the cluster... It seems that those bulbs are realy only for the actual guages and NOT the LCD.

2. I've also head from a speedometer reseller that I have to buy a replacement instrument cluster if the LCD isn't illuminated.

Which is it?

Also, any guidance/instructions on how to pull the cluster out of the dash?

Thanks in advance.

'97 Speed Yellow

[Tool Pants]

There is a bulb for each of the 3 LCDs. We have had to replace a few for just the reason you noticed. The bulb holder is tan. The black bulb holders are for the idiot lights. Those bulbs you replace from the back of the cluster. Instructions on cluster removal have been posted a 100 times. There are bulbs to light up the gauges but you have to take the cluster apart to get to them so you do not see them in my picture.

You can see the 3 tan bulb holders. The smaller black ones are for the idiot lights.

This is one of the bulbs you will need to replace. I have not found a source for them other than the dealer.

[ninerguru]

For what is worth, I had one of those lights go out on my car also... I was able to find one at my local Volvo dealer. All you have to make sure is that they are of the correct wattage. Light bulb should have a number telling what the wattage is. My Porsche dealer did not have one in stock, took my chances at a VW dealer and finally got lucky at the Volvo place... Lou

[raffi]

I was able to pick some up from a bmw dealer as well. I think they are the same price everywhere $4-5 so just find the nearest dealer. The bulbs are osram I believe.