Instrument Panel Switch Bulbs

[Hogwash]

I have a few bulbs out in my instrument panel switches (HUD position switch, dimmer, menu up/down, etc.) Does anyone know the type of bulb to replace them with? It looks like they need to be soldered in. I can't find these bulbs or even new switches on any of the parts sites... Thanks!

 

[XLR ED]

Call this place http://www.modelelectronics.com/index.asp They are a GM electronic repair shop. You may have to go through a GM dealer. I do know they repair the heads up displays along with other electronics.

 

[CadillacCustomerService]

Hogwash,

According to my resources, per the prints of those switches there are no bulbs serviced separately. The switch will need to be replaced. Hope this information helps.

Thank you,
Caron, Cadillac Customer Service

I have a few bulbs out in my instrument panel switches (HUD position switch, dimmer, menu up/down, etc.) Does anyone know the type of bulb to replace them with? It looks like they need to be soldered in. I can't find these bulbs or even new switches on any of the parts sites... Thanks!

 

[ChicagoDave]

Hogwash,

According to my resources, per the prints of those switches there are no bulbs serviced separately. The switch will need to be replaced. Hope this information helps.

Thank you,
Caron, Cadillac Customer Service

I was told the same thing when I had some lights out in my 2000 DTX. While still under the certified warranty, they replaced about 4 switches - that were not lighting up.

 

[ccclarke]

I've got an indicator out as well and plan to try to repair it this weekend. The switch units are serviced (ie:replaced) as an assembly, but I'm pretty sure they use 2-PLCC SMD LEDs just like the standard CJ2 climate control unit.

I'm planning to replace the amber LEDs and display panel on the CJ2 with the clear ones used on it's edges to get a uniform look. I've got a spare CJ2 to cannibalize and will let you know for sure what actually back there in a couple of days.

CC

 

[ccclarke]

Hogwash -You're right, there are bulbs inside the assembly! --Grain of wheat types too; I'm amazed GM hasn't spec'd long-lasting, more reliable LEDs.

Getting the DIC switch assembly out was easy enough, since I pulled my driver's seat out to fix the dreaded "clunk" whenever the car starts or stops abruptly (dealer said this was normal once, I beg to difffer.) I'm writing a procedure for that as I go, since the well-written Corvette procedure is of limited use.

Anyway, the lower closeout panel panel is removed, along with the knee bolster and then the switch assembly. It takes about a beer and a few choice words to get it all out of the dash.

I took the switch assy apart and electrically tested the bulb. It's got a little blue cover (kind of like an extra-small smurf condom) over the bulb and once that was removed, it was fairly obvious the filament was broken. A quick check online for similar form/fit/function bulbs was less than heartening, so I found the assembly at gmpartsdirect for $16 and placed an order. When I pull the old one out to install the new one, I'll design a current limiting resistor network that uses LEDs and test it in the removed unit. There's no telling what the parts situation for these assemblies will be down the road; --this is the second one I've had go South on me. Luckily, they're cheap.

Attached are a few pics.

CC