Things You'll Need:
- Hand tools depending on the vehicle.
- Bulbs differ from vehicle.
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Step 1
First step is to try to obtain the bulbs. Your local parts store should be able to help, if not a local dealership should at least be able to get the number of the bulb for you or let you know that there is no bulb and that the instrument panel may need replacement.
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Step 2
Once you get the bulbs, you can begin to disassemble the dashboard. Most common fasteners will be a push clip, 8 mm, 10 mm, or a #2 Phillips. Remove all the obvious fasteners and then gently with a small screw driver pry up on the trim panels. Take care not to break them. You may find some hidden fasteners when a trim panel is removed. If something does not come apart easily or requires excessive force, stop and examine the piece. There may be another fastener that you missed.
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Step 3
Once the trim has been removed and the instrument panel is loose, you can gently pull it out. take care not to damage wire harnesses or speedometer cables. You can tilt the panel to expose the sockets, they should be small plastic twist caps that will pop out when rotated. The bulb will be located inside the socket. The bulbs should pull out, unless it is a bayonet style bulb. Replace bulbs as needed and then insert the panel and test the lights. You may need to use a pencil eraser to clean the contacts to ensure proper connectivity.
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Step 4
Once the proper bulbs have been installed and tested to work, you can begin to replace all the trim panels and fasteners. Test the bulbs again to verify that all the connections are tight and that the repair is correct.
