Instrument Cluster backlight
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CF Beginner
Joined: Oct 2020
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Instrument Cluster backlight
2007 Chev Tahoe LTZ
The backlighting on the instrument cluster doesn't work during the day making it nearly impossible to see. After a quick search, I ended up replacing the dimmer/light switch which did nothing. I did the following testing to try and determine the root cause which is of course why I am here.........
1. Vehicle running / Daylight / light switch set to auto - does not work(illuminate)
2. Vehicle running / Daylight / light switch set to off - does not work
3. Vehicle running / Daylight / light switch set to parking lights - guages illuminate and dimmer works.
4. Vehicle running / Daylight / light switch set to on - guages illuminate and dimmer works.
5. Vehicle running / Night / guages illuminate
This issue only effects the guage backlights. the info display located at the bottom of the tac work as does the PRND12 located at the bottom of the speedo.
I contacted a company that repairs the IC and he didn't think it had anything to do with the IC or dimmer switch(that's been replaced).
I'm hoping this has nothing to do with the ambient light sensor located in the dash close to the windshield!!!
Any suggestions would be very much appreciated.
The backlighting on the instrument cluster doesn't work during the day making it nearly impossible to see. After a quick search, I ended up replacing the dimmer/light switch which did nothing. I did the following testing to try and determine the root cause which is of course why I am here.........
1. Vehicle running / Daylight / light switch set to auto - does not work(illuminate)
2. Vehicle running / Daylight / light switch set to off - does not work
3. Vehicle running / Daylight / light switch set to parking lights - guages illuminate and dimmer works.
4. Vehicle running / Daylight / light switch set to on - guages illuminate and dimmer works.
5. Vehicle running / Night / guages illuminate
This issue only effects the guage backlights. the info display located at the bottom of the tac work as does the PRND12 located at the bottom of the speedo.
I contacted a company that repairs the IC and he didn't think it had anything to do with the IC or dimmer switch(that's been replaced).
I'm hoping this has nothing to do with the ambient light sensor located in the dash close to the windshield!!!
Any suggestions would be very much appreciated.
Last edited by nelsonhd; Oct 13, 2020 at 5:26 PM.
CF Active Member
Joined: Oct 2020
Posts: 295
Likes: 43
It sure would help to know what year, make and model you are referring to. Start with the basics like that and I will try to help.
I first went right to the instrument cluster but it could be the photocell on the dash that is causing problems. Please supply info and I will do some research.
I first went right to the instrument cluster but it could be the photocell on the dash that is causing problems. Please supply info and I will do some research.
CF Active Member
Joined: Oct 2020
Posts: 295
Likes: 43
IMO, if you are looking to hopefully replace a part and fix that is inexpensive, the photocell at the dash would be the least expensive: https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo...33255&jsn=1683, but I am still leaning toward the IC coming out for rebuild. No way to know for sure unless diagnosed. The photocell at RA is almost $18 plus shipping. You can get the same at Amazon for free shipping and $22.00 and free shipping.
When you say you did the dimmer switch are you talking about the turn signal arm or the roller at the headlight switch?
When you say you did the dimmer switch are you talking about the turn signal arm or the roller at the headlight switch?
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