Q&A for How to Fix Dashboard Lights That Won't Light

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Question

Why isn't my dash lighting up?

Hovig Manouchekian
Auto Repair & Design Specialist
Hovig Manouchekian is an Auto Repair and Design Specialist and the Manager of Funk Brothers Auto, a family-owned business operated since 1925. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Hovig specializes in the process of auto repair and maintenance. He is also very knowledgeable in common automotive issues and needs including engine repair, battery replacement, and windshield accessory and maintenance. Hovig's knowledge and hard work have contributed to Funk Brothers Auto winning Angie's List Super Service Award for five consecutive years.

Hovig Manouchekian

Auto Repair & Design Specialist

Expert Answer

On older cars, the dash is lit by standard bulbs, and those will burn out sometimes and will need to be replaced. Some vehicles also have problems where there's no power being provided to the instrument panel, so check if there's a recall from your manufacturer. Also, the sensors that trigger those lights might not be sending the proper signal for them to activate.

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Question

Where is the fuse located?

Community Answer

Check under the hood, driver's side. It will have a plastic cover on it. Pry that off; the fuses are all inside.

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Question

Do you have any suggestions aside from bulbs and fuses?

Community Answer

Well, if you have to pull on a knob to turn your lights on, try twisting the knob in both directions because in my truck you can control the brightness by twisting it to the left.

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Question

My dashboard light switch is working, and current is flowing, but the light is not on. What should I do?

Community Answer

The power might not be connected correctly. Get a professional mechanic or electrician to help you fix it.

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Question

My dash does not tell me what gear I'm in. How can I fix it?

Community Answer

Take it to a reliable auto service place and have them take a look.

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Question

How do I fix my dashboard lights? What causes them to stop working?

Community Answer

Make sure your dash light dimmer switch is not turned off. Secondly, look for a blown fuse.

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Question

We changed the water pump and timing belt in a 2000 Toyota Camry LE 4 cylinder. It starts up and sounds good, but won't come out of park and has no dash or backup (tail) lights. What's wrong with it?

Community Answer

Your water pump would have no impact on the lights coming on. Those are two separate problems.

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Question

My dash PRNDS is lost after overhauling the transmission. What could be the problem?

Community Answer

Likely a sensor wire that didn't get plugged into the new transmission. Or it is plugged in but doesn't have contact (or the sensor is bad).

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Question

I have a Citroen C1. The indicator arrows don't work, though all fuses are okay. I had new indicator stalk fitted, but there are still no indicator arrows. Any thoughts?

R-Dixie- Normus

Community Answer

It sounds like a wiring issue. Check all voltages to all wires/ribbons that lead to the indicator lights.

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Question

How do I know what number fuse to use for my dashboard lights?

Community Answer

The number, i.e. 10A, 15A, is prominently displayed on fuse box that corresponds to each electrical function.

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Question

Is the dashboard lights fuse on the driver's side, or under the hood?

Community Answer

Either one or both, or even on the bottom right or left of the dash itself nearest to the front part of the doors when open. Some may be in or near the glove box.

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