How do you replace instrument panel lights on a 2001 dodge grand caravan?

Answer 1

The instructions for removing the instrument cluster listed further down are great. But sometimes there is an easier fix. So before you put yourself through the following instructions try disconnecting the battery. Touch the two battery cables together. Wait 2 minutes. Reconnect the battery. This resets a control module. If at that point you still have no instrument lights then follow these instructions.

First, you remove the center piece of the trim just in front of the steering wheel. This is best done using a trim stick or similar tool. There is a plastic grommet (mine was green in color) in the center of this piece holding it in place. A trim tool or flat head screw driver will help in this removal.

Then you will find 4 screws holding in the rest of the instrument panel trim. Two are underneath the trim you removed in step one, and the other two are at the top of the trim piece.

Now you can remove the cluster trim. But first. Did you set the emergency brake? If not do so now. Also did you disconnect the battery? No, well go back and do that also.

OK, now we can proceed. Put the key in the ignition, and turn to it to "ON". If you disconnected the battery the car won't start. I now this is obvious but to do the next step you have to disengage the lock on the gear selector.

Now, put your foot on the brake and and move the gear selector all the way to the lowest position. The trim piece should now move forward or towards you. Taking the right hand side move it towards the center council while pulling out towards you. You don't have to force it. Once you have this trim piece out place the gear selector back in park.

Next you must remove the four screws holding in the instrument cluster. They are placed in each corner. Be sure not to remove the screws holding the cluster faceplate. On the bottom they are right next to the cluster screws.

Now you are ready to pull it out and replace any bulbs as needed. Although they can be removed by hand, using pliers will prove far quicker and easier.

Re installation is the reverse of removal.

This is neither bad nor difficult. I read some websites that recommend removing half of the dash and one that kept using the phrase "highly trained mechanic." Don't believe it. This is an easy DIY.