It's simpler than it looks!
Time A full day
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$51–100
Introduction
Replace dashboard lights by removing the trim panel and instrument cluster. It sounds intimidating, but it's simpler than you might think with an online factory manual.Tools Required
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- Rags
Materials Required
- Instrument cluster bulbs
You’ve probably replaced burned-out headlights and taillights yourself. But if you’ve backed away from learning how to change burned-out dashboard lights because you thought the job was too complicated, you’re now out of excuses. We’ll show you how to remove the trim panels and instrument cluster on a 1999 Ford Taurus. But you can apply these disassembly tips to almost any vehicle.
Project step-by-step (3)
Step 1
Remove the radio
Removing dash trim panels is actually easy. The hard part is figuring out which panel to remove first. That’s where exploded diagrams from a shop manual really pay off. Online factory manuals offer the most detailed diagrams. Search online for “factory manuals” for your car model; most are available free or for minimal cost.
If you hate reading shop manuals, at least follow these two important tips: First, remove the bottom-most trim panel; we had to remove the Taurus radio to get to the bottom trim panel screws. A lower panel always hides the screws for the panel above it. And second, if a panel won’t pop out, don’t pull harder. You must have missed a retaining screw, so look harder.
Then, pry at a corner of the instrument cluster trim with a non-marring tool. Buy a set of nylon pry tools or wrap electrical tape around the end of a butter knife-screwdrivers can damage the dash. Insert the tool and use a quick snapping motion to dislodge the spring clip panel fasteners.
Step 2
Disconnect electrical connectors
Disconnect the negative battery terminal before removing any electrical connectors. Then, remove the connectors from the switches and controls and lift out the panel. Every electrical connector has a lock/release tab. Release it before trying to pull off the connector.
Next, remove the instrument cluster bezel (plastic window) to access the cluster retaining screws. Tilt the cluster forward and disconnect the electrical connectors. Remove the cluster, turn it over and locate the bulb sockets.
Step 3
Pull the bulbs
Twist the bulb socket a quarter turn and pull straight out. Handle them with a clean rag or gloves to keep skin oils off the glass. But be careful. Miniature bulbs can shatter and slice your fingers if you squeeze too hard trying to get them out of their sockets.
If the bulb won’t budge, use a small screwdriver to pry it out. Then simply replace it with a new bulb, and you’ll have successfully learned how to change dashboard lights.
