My dashboard won't get illumination unless the dimmer light switch is all the way up at night. When i put the dimmer switch the in the low or middle position nothing is illuminated (Radio / A/C / DASHBOARD) except for On Star / Shifting Column. The dome light works. What may be the problem? Please help. Thanks

 

Sounds like the light switch assembly. I found one on Amazon for $41. It's also Prime eligible, which means if you are a prime member, you get free 2-day shipping. If you don't have prime, ask a friend who does to get it for you and shipped to you.


It could very well be just dirty contacts inside the variable pot. However, it is much easier to just change the assembly than it would be to try and clean the contacts inside the switch. Most of the switches are not designed to be opened up and taken apart.

I haven't done this job yet on my Suburban, but after a quick look, it appears the bezel around the switch and the instrument panel should come off and then you'll gain access to a few screws to remove (probably four)and then the electrical connector(s) need to be disco'd to remove the old switch.

Reverse order for installation. Ops check the new switch before reinstalling the bezel.

 

crewchief is correct - replacing the switch is easy. Pop off the dash bezel (easiest if the gear shift lever is in "1"), and the whole dash panel is completely modular. Some switches snap in, others are screwed in (7mm).

I think the contacts get oxidized over time and eventually stop working. My 01 Burb was the same. When you'd move the dimmer, they'd flash and flicker. Never bothered replacing the switch - wasn't as bad as yours.

 

(Warthogcrewchief)
When you say switch assembly, does it mean the dimmer switch? if so, can i get the part at the local napa parts? Can anyone provide a picture how does the switch looks?

Thanks on the helpful tips.

 

It's the actual dimmer in the dash next to the headlight switch. You'd have to get a replacement from a dealership.

 

Click on the "Amazon" link provided in my original post. It'll show a picture of the lighting control panel, which contains the dimmer switch.