Dash Lights

[01Y87]

Question about the backlighting for the controls, on the '01 Camaro dash, is there supposed to be backlighting for the letters on the panel to the left of the steering wheel that contains the headlamp and dimmer switches? I cant seem to remember if mine was ever lit but it seems a bit odd having the left side totally dark, even though with the auto-headlamps you really never have to use the headlight switch. The face on the panel looks identical to the face on the HVAC panel which IS backlit.

[hotwhip9]

From what I can remember the parking and headlamp symbols should have backlighting. So should the shifter, and the little light that shines down on window/lock controls.

[Christopherrr]

Question about the backlighting for the controls, on the '01 Camaro dash, is there supposed to be backlighting for the letters on the panel to the left of the steering wheel that contains the headlamp and dimmer switches? I cant seem to remember if mine was ever lit but it seems a bit odd having the left side totally dark, even though with the auto-headlamps you really never have to use the headlight switch. The face on the panel looks identical to the face on the HVAC panel which IS backlit.

Yes, the control area with the dimmer and HL switch has a bulb. You have to remove the gauge hood (at least in Firebirds) so you can access the assembly, you have to remove it. From there, you can remove a bulb that sticks in face down on top of the assembly. You can't tell it's a bulb because of the connector...but it's obvious. Just becareful...I destroyed my connector because I thought it was a bulb inside the assembly trying to take it apart. If you examine the assembly you can tell how it works...

[01Y87]

thanks for the tip! I did that, and after some studying it I did find the bulb! It is probably the smallest bulb i have ever seen. I took it out, and i was trying to get the bulb part out of the black base and it broke! Is the bulb sold with the base? Where do I even find a bulb like that?

[Christopherrr]

thanks for the tip! I did that, and after some studying it I did find the bulb! It is probably the smallest bulb i have ever seen. I took it out, and i was trying to get the bulb part out of the black base and it broke! Is the bulb sold with the base? Where do I even find a bulb like that?

The bulb and connector assembly is one unit, but trying to find a retailer who carries it is difficult. I got a replacement from a dealer...it's been a while, but I recall 5 bucks. I'll try to find the part #.

[01Y87]

thanks, the part number would be handy! I do not see the bulb listed in my parts catalog or in any online GM parts house. I read in another forum that those kind of bulbs are typical for display backlights, like for radios and such, and some people have used a mini-lamp from Radio Shack.

I was able to seperate the broken bulb from the base by un-doing the wire contacts and then it just pulled apart. I think the Radio Shack one is just a bulb with wires and you have to wrap the wires in the base yourself. I might be able to do that but it would be easier if i could buy the whole bulb assembly!

[01Y87]

Got It!

Got the bulb from GM....popped it in about 30 seconds worth of "work"....and presto! I have a backlit headlamp switch again!

In case anyone else needs one, ask for part # 10195525, headlamp switch indicator lamp. Retails for $5.11.

I wonder, are the lights that provide the backlight for the main instrument cluster the same style?

[Christopherrr]

I wonder, are the lights that provide the backlight for the main instrument cluster the same style?

Glad you got the bulb...I was gonna reply telling you to just go to the dealer for an exploded view of the assembly for the part.

Anywho, the gauge cluster bulbs are not the same. The indicators, ie. service engine, abs, security, are lit by LEDs...but the needles and numbers on the speedo, tach, temp, pressure and fuel are lit by bulbs. I replaced all of them when one bulb went out. The difference is dramatic with new bulbs. Everything is extra bright.