predator427

2003 venture: every time i turn on my head lights my guage cluster and radio lights go out? any ideas?

OnThePike

By any chance, have you installed an after-market radio?

predator427

no...all factory...but would that cause my gauge cluster lights to go out?

OnThePike

I've seen that happen pretty frequently when someone installs an after market radio and ties the dimmer line to the illumination lead. But since you haven't touched your stock radio, it's highly doubtful your issue relates in any way to this wiring error.

I guess it's time to start looking for shorts in the circuit. I'm no expert here, but I'll try and lend a few suggestions:

You might want to check out the rear tail lights and make sure they all work. I know that might sound odd, but sometimes (not sure if this does or doesn't apply to your model), the dash lights will go out as a warning indicator that there's a problem with the tail lights.

You might also try probing the headlight/dimmer switch to check for voltage in all modes.

And silly as it sounds, make sure that the dimmer switch control is slid to maximum output (all the way to the right).

Check your fuses (in-dash and under-hood).

Check the wiring under the front driver's area and passenger's area for dampness/puddles and inspect wire and connectors in the area for water damage. These vans are notorious for leaky AC drain spouts that fall off and subsequently wet the front seating area. A corroded tail light harness could be to blame.

Do your headlights and radio actually work when the radio light and cluster panel go out?

predator427

yes radio and head lights work..just no lights in the cluster or on the radio..also just found out the the rear side power windows will not open anymore.