problem with instument lights (98 Catera)

cavallarojm · #1 (**permalink**) 12-15-04, 06:18 AM

My instrument lights don't work. I think it may be in the dimmer control but have been unable to figure out how to unplug and remove the headlight switch assembly to test it. Any suggestions? Also, is there anything else that would cause this problem?

chregan · #2 (**permalink**) 12-15-04, 10:01 AM

Fuses?
The headlight-disable switch is not activated, right?

cavallarojm · #3 (**permalink**) 12-15-04, 10:17 AM

Checked the fuses under the dash. OK
It doesn't matter if I use the sentinal or turn the headlights on manually.

chregan · #4 (**permalink**) 12-15-04, 12:39 PM

The headlights come on, right? So, it's not the relay. Unless there's a relay for the IP lights too.
I've never had my dash apart so I can't help you with removing the dimmer. I saw a procedure for removing the IP either here or on the Yahoo Catera group. That would be a start.
Do the radio/climate controls light up with the headlights? Or is the whole car out?

cavallarojm · #5 (**permalink**) 12-15-04, 01:36 PM

With headlights ON the climate control/radio lights go dim, I also lose the lights on the shifter (can't see which gear I am in).

chregan · #6 (**permalink**) 12-15-04, 03:08 PM

Here's the link to removing the IP. I came across it while looking for something else. http://www.angelfire.com/tx2/mannyyy/ipwriteup.html
I don't know if this will get you at the dimmer switch though. That really sounds like the cause to me.