thank you so much for posting this. my light on my 95 ford ranger for the seat belt blew out and a beep started and would not stop. it came from behind the glove box which i found unusual. doing some research i found out that if that bulb blows out that causes the beeping sound. watching your video helped me do this successfully. not to mention probably saved me quit a bit of money. did not get an estimate no need with good people like you again thank you
I wish I'd have watched this BEFORE buying a 2001 Ford Ranger.....If the bulb is missing, I'm not going to be happy. Another one of life's lessons learned. Great Video! It is very helpful. Thanks!!
Thank you so very much Matt. My mechanic told me $400 to replace my check engine light bulb which I do not have. I watched your video and did it myself. I am so very proud of myself and very grateful to you.♥️
I first started this job and I was so lost I want to thank you very much for your very very detailed removal of the instrument cluster. God bless you for all the knowledge he's given you. With out him we would be nothing. Thanks again.
I went ahead and completed my job as it turned out I had five light that were not working. The job way easy after watching your detail video. The job was a breeze what mostly made me mad is that the lights are now 4.99 a pair grrrrr there so small, what the heck!!! . Lol thanks again
Excellent video, I can't thank you so much for this! My CEL was burned out and I had no idea until I went in for the emission inspection, where I also found out it should have been on and I had two codes. The mechanic fixed the codes, but said it would cost another $300+ mostly in labor to pull out the dash and fix the light (on top of the $400 for the first fix). So I decided to try it myself. I have a '99 Ranger and your video was, screw for screw, identical to my truck. You took all the guesswork out of trying to pull apart the dash and I can't thank you enough for that. I had to go to three different parts stores to get enough of the little lights to replace all of them, but it was still loads cheaper than paying the mechanic. The only difficulty I had was in replacing the instrument panel. I couldn't fit it back in in such a way that I could also reattach the wiring, so I had to remove the cover behind the steering wheel to give myself enough wiggle room. That bit was a pain in the ass, but otherwise a simple, if time consuming, project. Thanks again for this video!
This one of two best TH-cam videos for taking apart the dash on you Ford (or maybe other cars too). I just followed the steps that this young man did. I would never have considered doing this job without this video. I repaired the odometer worm gear and replaced every light in the dash with LED lights. My dash looks and operates great now.
man, a few months ago my cel went off, I thought it fixed itself. found out the bulb was bad. so I bought a reader so I wouldn't have to go back and forth to Autozone. then I read where the first thing an emission test looks for is to see if your cel works. Thanks to your video I replaced the bulb today. have to install a catalytic converter this weekend but thanks so much for your very informative video, it really helped!
Matt..me again :) lol I know I have been posting a lot of comments in the last few days but when I find a youtube channel I like I tend to creep it pretty thoroughly lol. You referred me to this video in our comment conversation on your used vehicle inspection video series. Somehow I missed this video while checking out your channel! Another great video..this is something a lot of used car buyers miss. I know mandatory emissions tests can be a real PITA but at least they catch things like this. Since I am a fully certified technician here in my home province, I was able to take certification as an Authorized Inspector for our Commercial and Private Vehicle Inspection Program. These inspections are mandatory when a peace officer sees something that is in breach of our motor vehicle act, and writes you a notice of order to get an inspection. or when you are importing a vehicle from out of province or out of country. The criteria to pass these inspections is pretty strict (which I agree with because I have 3 kids and I like safe vehicles to be on my local roads) but I have been offered $$ to turn a blind eye to something, or remove a check engine light or ABS bulb. You mentioned that you have seen it more than once, and I have seen it more than once and we are just 2 people. Imagine how many used cars are out there driving around with inoperative ABS or even airbags that don't work….scary. Good for you for educating people on this important subject!
Layne Davis Thanks man. I agree, I can listen to myself all day lol. But seriously- I hate 3 minute videos. They only leave you with the impression you learned anything. Actually learning something of value and better yet understanding and retaining it takes more time and effort on part of a viewer.
Good to have you back, Matt. Regarding this situation, I find it amazing that somebody would be brazen enough to demonstrate their complete disrespect for the buyer. Sneaky behavior with a foundation of ignorance.
Dude - Great Video. My dash lights are out on the left side so after I check some fuses, I'll tackle the panel. Your video took the intimidation factor totally out of the picture. Thank you! Thank you!
Thanks for the video. I had a couple burned out bulbs and decided since I was in there to replace the lot. My Ranger is a 2000 model so I shouldn't have to do this again for another 17 years. Good Lord, I'll be 80!
Thank you so much for this video. I was able to replace all my back lights on my instrument panel. I wouldn't have attempted this without having watched this video. I probably saved myself $100.00 dollars by not taking it to the garage. One glitch, the gear shift indicator cable was also attached to my instrument panel. I kind of just left it connected and struggle around it.
Great video! Want to mention that on a 2002 Ranger the 7 larger bulbs (in the black holders) are #194 bulbs, and the 16 smaller ones (in the light tan holders) are #74 bulbs. The #74's are the lights for Parking Brake, Check Engine, Door Ajar, Check Gauge, etc. Also, on an automatic, there is cable on the bottom of the cluster that goes down past the left side of the steering column that needs to removed from under the dash. This cable looks a lot like a miniature lawnmower throttle cable and it has a loop that is hooked around a "finger". To see what I'm talking about do a TH-cam search for "Replacing Instrument Panel bulbs 2002 Ford Ranger Part 1" and go to the 9:10 point and continue on to part 2 and watch from the beginning to the 20 seconds mark.
Well done sir! I would've never figured this out on my own. I copied your entire procedure and it was a piece of cake. I finished in about 90 minutes. Now I can see the speedometer at night. Thank you for saving me some money! I look forward to future videos. Now I'm wondering how hard it would be to replace a clockspring on my girlfriend's 2004 Stratus. Thanks again!
Thanks! Got it done on my 1997 Aerostar, It was similar. The screws holding the radio bezel were behind the ashtray, and there was one on the left side, covered by the lower panel. On the Aerostar, I didn't have to remove the instrument panel fully (or disconnect any cables), because I could remove and replace the CEL (on the lower left edge of the panel) by reaching under with the panel loose, but still behind the wheel. Now, to deal with misfire on 3 and 5 which isn't staying away for a while after reset like it used to (until I climbed a hill on a hot day), and I had hoped, would again, at least, until I have enough cash for a tuneup.
Exactly-- I generally try to avoid videos on "how to do X on car Y" type videos because as you said every car every year will be different. The idea is if you know the general concepts you should be able to adapt to the model and year you are working on. I am glad you "get it" because I gets lots of requests to do the same exact video on "Y" vehicle which defeats the whole purpose of my efforts!
Thank you good sir. Just picked up a well used 1998 F150, noticed it has what appears to be several burned out instrument cluster lights. Hope to tackle this job on the weekend
Hello Sir, were you able to fix the problem you had on your vehicle, i have the same problem, do you think you can help me? I sincerely appreciated, all my lights went off on the instrument cluster, do you think they all got burnt out or it's possible a fuse, can you tell me what kind of light bulbs you use and the number, i need to fix my, if you can help me i sincerely appreciated i can not afford it to pay $350 dollars that is what the mechanic quote me for, i think i can do it myself with the help of someone like you, that i know you had it done, again thanks in advance.
Hello Jessica, i need your help in regards to how to fix the light bulbs on the instrument cluster, i have a 1997 Ford 150, 5.0 liters, all my lights went out, what size of light bulbs did you bought for your car, i need to get the same ones, i think, can you please help me, thanks in advance if you can give me some tips how to do this job i sincerely appreciated it, thanks in advance.
It’s most likely a fuse. Most IP clusters are on a 5A fuse. Check the fuse first and also check for power to the fuse itself as well. If the fuse works AND there is power to it you might check the dimmer switch next.
Ok. Thank you so much for your help, i sure will check what you say first, i will keep you updated, thank you so much. I have a voltmeter can I check for power at the slot of the fuse with it, how do I do this test? do you know what numbers should i expect. Again thank you, i am sorry for taking your time, can you explain the process, thank you.
Thanks for the video! I just saw your video and went outside to change the lights on the instrument panel of a 1999 ford ranger, 2.5L engine, manual transmission. Your video helped me out tremendously. Big, thanks!!
Charles Olver Thanks, I know what you mean lol- I purposefully try to put effort into making the content articulate and flow well without scripting it. Thanks for noticing!
my E-250 failed NC inspection because the Hi-Beam dash indicator light was not working even though the actual Hi-Beam lights are working....I will give this a shot to replace the bulb in the instrument cluster and keep my fingers crossed that it will fix the problem...Thanks for the video...a lot of helpful information even if it doesn't fix my problem...
I would check for voltage to the panel from the switch verifying this would indeed fix the problem rather than crossing my fingers. Anytime you cross your fingers that a repair works you're guessing- not diagnosing.
hi, thanks for the advice. I have a voltmeter but don't understand how to check for voltage to the panel from the switch. I'm good with fixing mechanical stuff but dumb when it comes to tracing voltage in wires...how exactly would I do this?
well everyone is good at mechanical who can’t turn a bolt, right? lol. It’s really easy to test- just measure for voltage at the to the bulb circuit I just use a chassis ground for simplicity. if you have voltage then your only possibilities are a lack of continuity OR a bad ground, right? Simply establish if the ground is unique or shared. If it is shared AND there is functionality in the shared loads,then an open is the only explanation. Make sense? If however the ground is unique just verify integrity of the ground and then of course your problem is isolated. Just make sure you don’t short circuit the feed side!!! I have tons of videos on these types of electrical basic tests for beginners.
...fixed it today and passed inspection....I "borrowed a fuse from that location months ago doing another repair thinking it was an unimportant location and never put it back....months later it caused me to fail my inspection....not doing the right thing comes back to haunt you sometimes, haha....thanks for the replies...
Thanks for the video. Saves a lot of head scratching and talking to self. Identical dash to my 97 Mazda (FoMoCo) pickup which needs to have a bulb replaced.
Hello Lynda, can you help me, all my lights are out in the cluster, do you think it's possible to be a fuse or all the light bulb are out, also can you please provide me the number of the bulb you had purchased for your vehícle, i have a 1997 mercury mountaineer 5.0 liter made by Ford, thanks in advance, take care...
I have a 95 ranger. I took all those panels off and hesitated when coming up to that cluster. tip for hymefly I replaced all the lights with blue leds and it looks good and works amazing. My ranger is blue neon all around inside and out. imgonna post a video in a couple of months. Thanks for the video schrodingers box
Here's a warning if you're doing this to pass inspection: disconnecting the battery will reset the OBD, so it will not pass inspection until you've driven the truck awhile. I went straight back to the inspection station after the CEL was fixed, but they said they couldn't check the OBD because I disconnected the battery. I said, "But you already checked the OBD codes and everything was fine, and all I had to do was fix the CEL bulb??" They said, "yeah, but for emissions we have to hook it to the computer again, so come back in a few hundred miles."
Hey great video. Straight forward with what you're doing(fixing). Easy details and no side talking about shit that doesn't even have to do with what you're working on. Thanks.
Actually I see this kind of thing alllll the time. Given the nature of cars I work on as a DIY, I see lots of cars over 10 years old and nearing 200K miles that people bought used for under $2K. Some things I've seen: -numerous tampered check engine, ABS, airbag and seatbelt lights -beer can tab used in an attempt to shim a noisy worn rocker arm -missing engine to trans bolts after a junkyard used engine swap -windshield sealed with caulk, and of course LOTS of duct taped components lol!
Wow, I must have missed this video when Matt first posted it! I thought he was putting me on. What is missing in this video is the usual "edge" that he displays in his current videos :-) Looks like this one was made for 99%rs I would have never thought that Matt could make a video without insulting 99%ers but this video is the proof that he can make non-sarcastic video. Personally, I am having trouble trying to decide which Matt I like better!
Why not combine both? Insult your viewers but still show some of the details that you consider silly or trivial. Come to think of it, have at it while showing them :-) You not only showed how you took that instrument panel off but articulated reasoning as to how to do it without knowing it apriori. This is an art that you possess and I would like you to include those portion in your videos too.
This was a good video. I like that your cautious, as most just tear everything out and then bring it to me when they break the components and can't figure out how to put it back together.
Yeah it would seem common sense that if the part won't remove, it must still be fastened to something but seems people don't grasp that concept very well.
Hey great video man really helps, Im going to go change out m bulbs for something different like red or blue, cause the green on my 2001 is just getting old
I just wish they were easier to replace and less possibility of damaging something and I might switch the colors once a month or so because I ordered enough of every light color there were, red; green; white; pink; blue. I just cannot seem to find the bulbs for the little ones.
Estubo genial el vídeo, muchas gracias, precisamente tengo este problema pero gracias a Dios y a ti Le daré solucione a este problema muchísimas gracias. Y me acabo de suscribir y seguiré viendo tus vídeos.. buenas noches desde Veracruz México..recibe un saludo. cordial.
thanks for vid... i forgot to check that, but also my first vehicle, and as is its a ford ranger XLT 96... and well i had a code pop up for a purge canister valve and my check engine light doesnt come on at all... so thanks.
Thank you very very much!! I only have 2 bulbs left showing up.. ish.. My Dash is a '99 Ranger but the principal should be the same!.. At least I am hoping.. Kelz
Great Video Matt. I am a shop mechanic myself, and the comment about the CEL is right on target. I have done used car inspections and i find this bulb physically taken out or burned out by unscrupulous car sellers. What surprises me though is how Ford made this bulb change out so difficult in comparison to other manufacturers. I do bulbs often enough to find that most cars just take the bezel around the Inst Clust out and 2 or 3 screws on the cluster and its out. What is Ford thinking? And BTW, most of the cars i have owned have been Ford, so im not just Ford bashing. And Thanks for the GREAT videos. I am trying to get the shop owner to get a good camera/video machine so we can take a few ourselves.
Thanks for the comment John. I would assume or at least hope newer cars would have LED's instead of bulbs by now (I don't see a lot of newer cars)- it would help a lot with the burned out bulbs, but it still won't help people who disable the CEL. I have seen this quite often too- very frustrating, especially considering that often the repair is easier than removing the bulb (that is, if people can diagnose properly).
LOL. I agree about the repair being easier than the work to disable the light. I had a Nissan truck with an abs light and it turned out to be a loose alternator belt. and low battery power. Go figure.
I think I would have replaced all the bulbs since I had it out and it was such a pain to do. Since they are standard GE bulbs, I am sure they are not dealer expensive.
great video thanks... my dashboard is almost black in my ford explorer 1998] the engine bulb work and the warning bulbs too) what bulbs i need replace? thanks
Hi, I wanna change the colors of like the speedometer and all the gauges to make it nice and custom. Is it hard to change it? I have a 1998 Ford Ranger XLT(practically same interior as this vehicle you show)
@Doof3prod- Yes, any instrument cluster mod will be easily done using the instructions. The only difference might be you may need to remove the plastic cover (this is mentioned but not shown in the video) if you will doing something like white-faced guages or the like. But indeed this video will be a good guide for your project. Good luck.
hey Matt great job instructing instrument panel removal, the reason i was watching because i have a 97 explorer that the tack sometimes stick, what would you recommend
great video! it helped a lot, but afterwards I got pulled over for no taillights!! I don't know if these two are related but please comment your conclusion :) (the brake light still illuminates)
turns out Autozone gave me #194 bulbs so I just used the oil pressure bulb in its place. wasnt about to put all that together just to run to Autozone. 1996 ford explorer with 240,000 miles doesnt need a lot of money spent on it now.
What would you suggest if one of the illumination bulb (back light so you can see the panel at night) slots doesn't work? I switched the bulb but it doesn't light. Thanks for the video.
I gotta thank you for the instruction. 3 different shops told me it would be at least $200 just to complete this task. I learned from your video quickly and did it myself in about an hour and 5 bucks later! My next task is the same EVAP problem as this 96 ranger. Any tips? Do I need to drop the tank?
Without knowing the EVAP code it is hard to say, but if the code is P0442 or P0455 your most likely culprit is a loose gas cap. Otherwise if it a solenoid issue the EVAP solenoid on these trucks is conveniently located in the engine bay on the left front of the engine (e.g. drivers side). This truck in my video also had a failed solenoid- Putting 12V to the solenoid failed to make it click and after replacing it the truck later got the P0455 from a disconnected hose. All very minor. I would check these before I considered dropping the gas tank.
I have gotten to the point of pulling the panel out but it won't come out. I'm working on a 90 model. I'm sure that I have all the screws out because it will come out about a 1/2 inch but that's as far as it goes. Am I missing something? Also the only gauges she has working are the gas the tachometer and speedometer. Can these be replaced? Thank you.
Ive got to do this on a 96 Explorer XLT. It looks to be about the same setup though. Can I get these bulbs from AutoZone or any auto parts store, or will I need to get them off of the internet somehow?
A comment you might find useful. When removing the bulbs i saw you used a pair of needle nose pliers. i have seen damage circuit sheets from people being careless with these regulier type needle nose. Go to you local electronic supply store and by the small ones. there is less chance of damage. And if you have an auto salvage yard in your area like I do (we actually have 50 or 60), go there and find units already out and just harvest a dozen or so lights. Most yards don't care about the bulbs. It will save you tons on cost of parts.
I indeed have dozens of salvaged bulbs but I never use them for instrument panel or other difficult to access components because you cannot know the longevity remaining, I would very strongly advise against a used bulb for an instrument panel. Compared to the low cost of a new bulb against the effort put into this, I strongly advise new bulbs in this application.
Hi Matt. I have a 95 ford ranger that failed inspection due to high beam indicator light bulb out. Will I find that bulb using your instructions here? If so, could I take this bulb to oreilly or auto zone and get a new one or is this bulb a special order? Thank you
Schrodingers Box Hi Matt. I pulled out the instrument panel today. I replaced the hi beam indicator bulb. No luck. Hi beam indicator did not illuminate. Any suggestions?
Israel Franco Well of course- before you would replace an IP bulb you have to diagnose that you actually need a new bulb first!!!! You have to test all the components involved in the circuit and find the fault and repair as necessary. Test the wiring, switch, and verify the absence of the hi beam indicator is not intentional to indicate failure of a high beam bulb operation in the headlamp or something.
Schrodingers Box Well, I took the whole thing apart myself, thanks to you, and am now headed to Pep-Boys to buy the replacement bulb. ETA: And... done. Had to pick a bulb that looked like the right one, because neither PB nor Advance Auto had the right one. But it's working and should pass inspection now.
You should try to put the steering wheel down it may helped you to release the cluster much more easy :D keep up the excelent work I´m learning a lot from your´s videos
My 99 Explorer has a cable for shift indicator. Followed your video and when tilting the cluster something popped and I looked see the cable hanging. Now I can't shift into gear.
@@SchrodingersBox I don't understand how to pull the cluster without doing something about where the cable runs into the cluster. I can't see what the plastic holder connects to. You don't have to reply, I'll try to figure it out. I looked a 3 other similar videos and none mention this problem.
I don't think its ignorance to use one's own personal experiences to determine whether a certain make of vehicle is likely to be a heap of crap or not. I was once a GM guy. I loved and bought only GM products. Then 4 members of my family and myself all had major problems with our GM vehicles within 18 months of each other. One of the problems was a failed engine that GM would not stand behind. Another was the clear coat started pealing off the paint at less than one year old and GM would not repaint it because it was a pickup truck and they said they don't cover cosmetics on pickup trucks. We are all the type of car owners who have regular maintenance done on our vehicles to make them last as long as we can because none of us are rich. Now I own 3 Ford vehicles and none have given me a minute of trouble and I will never go back to GM. Whether or not all vehicles are essentially the same in termsnof reliability, car MAKERS are not. And GM has made its last dollar off of me.
thank you so much for posting this. my light on my 95 ford ranger for the seat belt blew out and a beep started and would not stop. it came from behind the glove box which i found unusual. doing some research i found out that if that bulb blows out that causes the beeping sound. watching your video helped me do this successfully. not to mention probably saved me quit a bit of money. did not get an estimate no need with good people like you again thank you
I wish I'd have watched this BEFORE buying a 2001 Ford Ranger.....If the bulb is missing, I'm not going to be happy. Another one of life's lessons learned. Great Video! It is very helpful. Thanks!!
Thank you so very much Matt.
My mechanic told me $400 to replace my check engine light bulb which I do not have.
I watched your video and did it myself.
I am so very proud of myself and very grateful to you.♥️
You should be proud of yourself!! great job!!
How long did it take you? The light bulb that illuminates the speedometer is out and I really need to replace it.
I first started this job and I was so lost I want to thank you very much for your very very detailed removal of the instrument cluster. God bless you for all the knowledge he's given you. With out him we would be nothing.
Thanks again.
I went ahead and completed my job as it turned out I had five light that were not working. The job way easy after watching your detail video. The job was a breeze what mostly made me mad is that the lights are now 4.99 a pair grrrrr there so small, what the heck!!! . Lol thanks again
+Julian Petra Go to a auto yard and get a lot of them for nothing, I always get small things for my car to play it safe.
Excellent video, I can't thank you so much for this! My CEL was burned out and I had no idea until I went in for the emission inspection, where I also found out it should have been on and I had two codes. The mechanic fixed the codes, but said it would cost another $300+ mostly in labor to pull out the dash and fix the light (on top of the $400 for the first fix). So I decided to try it myself. I have a '99 Ranger and your video was, screw for screw, identical to my truck. You took all the guesswork out of trying to pull apart the dash and I can't thank you enough for that. I had to go to three different parts stores to get enough of the little lights to replace all of them, but it was still loads cheaper than paying the mechanic.
The only difficulty I had was in replacing the instrument panel. I couldn't fit it back in in such a way that I could also reattach the wiring, so I had to remove the cover behind the steering wheel to give myself enough wiggle room. That bit was a pain in the ass, but otherwise a simple, if time consuming, project. Thanks again for this video!
This one of two best TH-cam videos for taking apart the dash on you Ford (or maybe other cars too). I just followed the steps that this young man did. I would never have considered doing this job without this video. I repaired the odometer worm gear and replaced every light in the dash with LED lights. My dash looks and operates great now.
man, a few months ago my cel went off, I thought it fixed itself. found out the bulb was bad. so I bought a reader so I wouldn't have to go back and forth to Autozone. then I read where the first thing an emission test looks for is to see if your cel works. Thanks to your video I replaced the bulb today. have to install a catalytic converter this weekend but thanks so much for your very informative video, it really helped!
Thanks Matt. Your video was very informative and My Explorer has now passed emissions thanks to your "no nonsense" approach.Again, Many Thanks
Agreed, good to have you back. Yes, it's astounding what people will do to cover up problems and then pass them off to an unknowing buyer.
Matt..me again :) lol I know I have been posting a lot of comments in the last few days but when I find a youtube channel I like I tend to creep it pretty thoroughly lol. You referred me to this video in our comment conversation on your used vehicle inspection video series. Somehow I missed this video while checking out your channel! Another great video..this is something a lot of used car buyers miss. I know mandatory emissions tests can be a real PITA but at least they catch things like this. Since I am a fully certified technician here in my home province, I was able to take certification as an Authorized Inspector for our Commercial and Private Vehicle Inspection Program. These inspections are mandatory when a peace officer sees something that is in breach of our motor vehicle act, and writes you a notice of order to get an inspection. or when you are importing a vehicle from out of province or out of country. The criteria to pass these inspections is pretty strict (which I agree with because I have 3 kids and I like safe vehicles to be on my local roads) but I have been offered $$ to turn a blind eye to something, or remove a check engine light or ABS bulb. You mentioned that you have seen it more than once, and I have seen it more than once and we are just 2 people. Imagine how many used cars are out there driving around with inoperative ABS or even airbags that don't work….scary. Good for you for educating people on this important subject!
Most tutorials on car repair over 3 minutes in length are excruciating to watch. Yours however Matt was awesome! Great job!!
Layne Davis Thanks man. I agree, I can listen to myself all day lol.
But seriously- I hate 3 minute videos. They only leave you with the impression you learned anything. Actually learning something of value and better yet understanding and retaining it takes more time and effort on part of a viewer.
+Schrodingers Box well done...
Good to have you back, Matt.
Regarding this situation, I find it amazing that somebody would be brazen enough to demonstrate their complete disrespect for the buyer. Sneaky behavior with a foundation of ignorance.
Dude - Great Video. My dash lights are out on the left side so after I check some fuses, I'll tackle the panel. Your video took the intimidation factor totally out of the picture. Thank you! Thank you!
Thanks for the video. I had a couple burned out bulbs and decided since I was in there to replace the lot. My Ranger is a 2000 model so I shouldn't have to do this again for another 17 years. Good Lord, I'll be 80!
Thank you so much for this video. I was able to replace all my back lights on my instrument panel. I wouldn't have attempted this without having watched this video. I probably saved myself $100.00 dollars by not taking it to the garage. One glitch, the gear shift indicator cable was also attached to my instrument panel. I kind of just left it connected and struggle around it.
Great video! Want to mention that on a 2002 Ranger the 7 larger bulbs (in the black holders) are #194 bulbs, and the 16 smaller ones (in the light tan holders) are #74 bulbs. The #74's are the lights for Parking Brake, Check Engine, Door Ajar, Check Gauge, etc.
Also, on an automatic, there is cable on the bottom of the cluster that goes down past the left side of the steering column that needs to removed from under the dash. This cable looks a lot like a miniature lawnmower throttle cable and it has a loop that is hooked around a "finger". To see what I'm talking about do a TH-cam search for "Replacing Instrument Panel bulbs 2002 Ford Ranger Part 1" and go to the 9:10 point and continue on to part 2 and watch from the beginning to the 20 seconds mark.
Well done sir! I would've never figured this out on my own. I copied your entire procedure and it was a piece of cake. I finished in about 90 minutes. Now I can see the speedometer at night. Thank you for saving me some money! I look forward to future videos. Now I'm wondering how hard it would be to replace a clockspring on my girlfriend's 2004 Stratus. Thanks again!
Thanks! Got it done on my 1997 Aerostar, It was similar. The screws holding the radio bezel were behind the ashtray, and there was one on the left side, covered by the lower panel. On the Aerostar, I didn't have to remove the instrument panel fully (or disconnect any cables), because I could remove and replace the CEL (on the lower left edge of the panel) by reaching under with the panel loose, but still behind the wheel.
Now, to deal with misfire on 3 and 5 which isn't staying away for a while after reset like it used to (until I climbed a hill on a hot day), and I had hoped, would again, at least, until I have enough cash for a tuneup.
Amazing video. I used this to help my grains out with his dashboard lights. He was confused on how to get to them without this I wouldn't know.
Thanks for taking the time. All these cars differ, knob removing,screws,plugs. Your video is very helpful.
Exactly-- I generally try to avoid videos on "how to do X on car Y" type videos because as you said every car every year will be different. The idea is if you know the general concepts you should be able to adapt to the model and year you are working on. I am glad you "get it" because I gets lots of requests to do the same exact video on "Y" vehicle which defeats the whole purpose of my efforts!
Thank you good sir.
Just picked up a well used 1998 F150, noticed it has what appears to be several burned out instrument cluster lights. Hope to tackle this job on the weekend
I bought a 97 a year ago and I need to tackle this job too, feel better about the job seeing videos about it online.
Hello Sir, were you able to fix the problem you had on your vehicle, i have the same problem, do you think you can help me? I sincerely appreciated, all my lights went off on the instrument cluster, do you think they all got burnt out or it's possible a fuse, can you tell me what kind of light bulbs you use and the number, i need to fix my, if you can help me i sincerely appreciated i can not afford it to pay $350 dollars that is what the mechanic quote me for, i think i can do it myself with the help of someone like you, that i know you had it done, again thanks in advance.
Hello Jessica, i need your help in regards to how to fix the light bulbs on the instrument cluster, i have a 1997 Ford 150, 5.0 liters, all my lights went out, what size of light bulbs did you bought for your car, i need to get the same ones, i think, can you please help me, thanks in advance if you can give me some tips how to do this job i sincerely appreciated it, thanks in advance.
It’s most likely a fuse. Most IP clusters are on a 5A fuse. Check the fuse first and also check for power to the fuse itself as well. If the fuse works AND there is power to it you might check the dimmer switch next.
Ok. Thank you so much for your help, i sure will check what you say first, i will keep you updated, thank you so much. I have a voltmeter can I check for power at the slot of the fuse with it, how do I do this test? do you know what numbers should i expect. Again thank you, i am sorry for taking your time, can you explain the process, thank you.
Thanks for the video! I just saw your video and went outside to change the lights on the instrument panel of a 1999 ford ranger, 2.5L engine, manual transmission. Your video helped me out tremendously. Big, thanks!!
That is the most articulate video I have ever seen. Hands down. Thank you!
Charles Olver Thanks, I know what you mean lol- I purposefully try to put effort into making the content articulate and flow well without scripting it. Thanks for noticing!
my E-250 failed NC inspection because the Hi-Beam dash indicator light was not working even though the actual Hi-Beam lights are working....I will give this a shot to replace the bulb in the instrument cluster and keep my fingers crossed that it will fix the problem...Thanks for the video...a lot of helpful information even if it doesn't fix my problem...
I would check for voltage to the panel from the switch verifying this would indeed fix the problem rather than crossing my fingers. Anytime you cross your fingers that a repair works you're guessing- not diagnosing.
hi, thanks for the advice. I have a voltmeter but don't understand how to check for voltage to the panel from the switch. I'm good with fixing mechanical stuff but dumb when it comes to tracing voltage in wires...how exactly would I do this?
well everyone is good at mechanical who can’t turn a bolt, right? lol. It’s really easy to test- just measure for voltage at the to the bulb circuit I just use a chassis ground for simplicity. if you have voltage then your only possibilities are a lack of continuity OR a bad ground, right? Simply establish if the ground is unique or shared. If it is shared AND there is functionality in the shared loads,then an open is the only explanation. Make sense? If however the ground is unique just verify integrity of the ground and then of course your problem is isolated. Just make sure you don’t short circuit the feed side!!!
I have tons of videos on these types of electrical basic tests for beginners.
...fixed it today and passed inspection....I "borrowed a fuse from that location months ago doing another repair thinking it was an unimportant location and never put it back....months later it caused me to fail my inspection....not doing the right thing comes back to haunt you sometimes, haha....thanks for the replies...
Helpful, appreciate the detail of labeling connectors. Helping me fix my Ford also!
Thanks for the video. Saves a lot of head scratching and talking to self. Identical dash to my 97 Mazda (FoMoCo) pickup which needs to have a bulb replaced.
Thank you for this helpful and easy to follow video. It enabled me to save lots of money buy fixing this problem myself.
Thanks alot man. Very helpful. Had to replace instrument panel bulbs on my 2000 mazda B3000. Basically, its a Ford Ranger. Thanks alot!
great instructions.... One hour and I am done and I am a girl. Went ahead and took the plastic cover off the front and wiped out the dust.
You mention your being a girl as if it would be a disadvantage. Don't do that!
Hello Lynda, can you help me, all my lights are out in the cluster, do you think it's possible to be a fuse or all the light bulb are out, also can you please provide me the number of the bulb you had purchased for your vehícle, i have a 1997 mercury mountaineer 5.0 liter made by Ford, thanks in advance, take care...
I have a 95 ranger. I took all those panels off and hesitated when coming up to that cluster. tip for hymefly I replaced all the lights with blue leds and it looks good and works amazing. My ranger is blue neon all around inside and out. imgonna post a video in a couple of months. Thanks for the video schrodingers box
Here's a warning if you're doing this to pass inspection: disconnecting the battery will reset the OBD, so it will not pass inspection until you've driven the truck awhile. I went straight back to the inspection station after the CEL was fixed, but they said they couldn't check the OBD because I disconnected the battery. I said, "But you already checked the OBD codes and everything was fine, and all I had to do was fix the CEL bulb??" They said, "yeah, but for emissions we have to hook it to the computer again, so come back in a few hundred miles."
Hey great video. Straight forward with what you're doing(fixing). Easy details and no side talking about shit that doesn't even have to do with what you're working on. Thanks.
Actually I see this kind of thing alllll the time. Given the nature of cars I work on as a DIY, I see lots of cars over 10 years old and nearing 200K miles that people bought used for under $2K. Some things I've seen: -numerous tampered check engine, ABS, airbag and seatbelt lights -beer can tab used in an attempt to shim a noisy worn rocker arm -missing engine to trans bolts after a junkyard used engine swap -windshield sealed with caulk, and of course LOTS of duct taped components lol!
Great video especially the detective work to determine that the previous owner removed the check engine bulb. Some people are truly deceitful.
Very well done, will get at my 03 ranger tomorrow. thanks a lot...
very good video great detail involved thanks
Great video. Easy to follow. i was able to accomplish this in a small amount of time. Thanks!!
Exactly what I needed. Same truck and need to replace the bulbs. Thanks.
Just finished. The #37 bulbs need extra care going in. Make sure you check all lights before putting it back together.
Thank you so much for taking the time to do that. Looks like my project for tomorrow...
Very well done. My 2003 Ranger is almost identical.
When I do IP bulb replacements, I don't even check the others I just replace them all with new ones. The bulbs are cheaper than the labor.
You are exactly right and I agree that your way should be considered a best practice.
Wow, I must have missed this video when Matt first posted it! I thought he was putting me on.
What is missing in this video is the usual "edge" that he displays in his current videos :-) Looks like this one was made for 99%rs I would have never thought that Matt could make a video without insulting 99%ers but this video is the proof that he can make non-sarcastic video. Personally, I am having trouble trying to decide which Matt I like better!
Lol, well let me know which one you like better and I will be sure to do the other so I keep my inflammatory presentation style constant!
Why not combine both? Insult your viewers but still show some of the details that you consider silly or trivial. Come to think of it, have at it while showing them :-) You not only showed how you took that instrument panel off but articulated reasoning as to how to do it without knowing it apriori. This is an art that you possess and I would like you to include those portion in your videos too.
Very detailed walk through. Thanks!
Great video very well worded and good illustration. I have a 92 ranger that I'm going to do it on. Looking forward ro more videos.
This was a good video. I like that your cautious, as most just tear everything out and then bring it to me when they break the components and can't figure out how to put it back together.
Yeah it would seem common sense that if the part won't remove, it must still be fastened to something but seems people don't grasp that concept very well.
Thank you for this video! was very informative and helpful for the dash light repair on my 1998 Ford Ranger. Charlene
Thank you very nice. You are a very good teacher.
Hey great video man really helps, Im going to go change out m bulbs for something different like red or blue, cause the green on my 2001 is just getting old
I just wish they were easier to replace and less possibility of damaging something and I might switch the colors once a month or so because I ordered enough of every light color there were, red; green; white; pink; blue. I just cannot seem to find the bulbs for the little ones.
very helpful video! thanks for taking the time to post!
I enjoyed your video. It was very helpful. Thank you!
Fantastic video. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You're AWESOME.
Thank you, I replaced my dash lights, all is well!!
lol - I just cant read my gas gauge at night, check engine light works - I'll make sure I have gas during the day. Thank you for the vid :))))
Estubo genial el vídeo, muchas gracias, precisamente tengo este problema pero gracias a Dios y a ti
Le daré solucione a este problema muchísimas gracias. Y me acabo de suscribir y seguiré viendo tus vídeos.. buenas noches desde Veracruz México..recibe un saludo. cordial.
thanks for vid... i forgot to check that, but also my first vehicle, and as is its a ford ranger XLT 96... and well i had a code pop up for a purge canister valve and my check engine light doesnt come on at all... so thanks.
Thank you very very much!! I only have 2 bulbs left showing up.. ish.. My Dash is a '99 Ranger but the principal should be the same!.. At least I am hoping.. Kelz
Very clear and helpful. Thank you!
looking to replace this bulb in a 2001 accord. should it be about the same once I get the instrument panel out?
Great Video Matt. I am a shop mechanic myself, and the comment about the CEL is right on target. I have done used car inspections and i find this bulb physically taken out or burned out by unscrupulous car sellers.
What surprises me though is how Ford made this bulb change out so difficult in comparison to other manufacturers. I do bulbs often enough to find that most cars just take the bezel around the Inst Clust out and 2 or 3 screws on the cluster and its out. What is Ford thinking? And BTW, most of the cars i have owned have been Ford, so im not just Ford bashing.
And Thanks for the GREAT videos. I am trying to get the shop owner to get a good camera/video machine so we can take a few ourselves.
Thanks for the comment John. I would assume or at least hope newer cars would have LED's instead of bulbs by now (I don't see a lot of newer cars)- it would help a lot with the burned out bulbs, but it still won't help people who disable the CEL. I have seen this quite often too- very frustrating, especially considering that often the repair is easier than removing the bulb (that is, if people can diagnose properly).
LOL. I agree about the repair being easier than the work to disable the light. I had a Nissan truck with an abs light and it turned out to be a loose alternator belt. and low battery power. Go figure.
Awesome video...Thank you for posting!
Thanks for sharing. Was very helpful.
Thank you very much. Your video was very helpfull
I think I would have replaced all the bulbs since I had it out and it was such a pain to do. Since they are standard GE bulbs, I am sure they are not dealer expensive.
great tutorial. just what I needed to know.
great video thanks... my dashboard is almost black in my ford explorer 1998] the engine bulb work and the warning bulbs too) what bulbs i need replace? thanks
Thanks for this! Very helpful!
Thank you your video was a big help
Great video. Thank you!
Good video. I can tell you're experienced
+traceski mill Not really- just a DIY actually.
Hi, I wanna change the colors of like the speedometer and all the gauges to make it nice and custom. Is it hard to change it? I have a 1998 Ford Ranger XLT(practically same interior as this vehicle you show)
@Doof3prod- Yes, any instrument cluster mod will be easily done using the instructions. The only difference might be you may need to remove the plastic cover (this is mentioned but not shown in the video) if you will doing something like white-faced guages or the like. But indeed this video will be a good guide for your project. Good luck.
Schrodingers Box thankyou! Do you think you could send me some links for the types of bulbs and fasteners I should be looknig for? Thankyou.
Very helpful!
hey Matt great job instructing instrument panel removal, the reason i was watching because i have a 97 explorer that the tack sometimes stick, what would you recommend
I have problem with ford everest 2005 with blinking hold lamp indicator. Can u help me how ti repair it?
great video! it helped a lot, but afterwards I got pulled over for no taillights!! I don't know if these two are related but please comment your conclusion :) (the brake light still illuminates)
You can get those bulbs at Autozone in a 2 pack. They are Phillips #37 and they cost around $5
turns out Autozone gave me #194 bulbs so I just used the oil pressure bulb in its place. wasnt about to put all that together just to run to Autozone. 1996 ford explorer with 240,000 miles doesnt need a lot of money spent on it now.
Great video, Matt. Is it a good idea to reconnect the battery and test the new bulbs prior to reassembly? Thanks.
Always!
Are the tan lights a different bulb number? I know the black tabs are 194 bulbs but are the tan tabs like 168? They looked smaller. thanks!
The tan modules take a #37 bulb.
What would you suggest if one of the illumination bulb (back light so you can see the panel at night) slots doesn't work? I switched the bulb but it doesn't light. Thanks for the video.
+Sean Perkins I would check for voltage to the socket and repair as needed for open or short to ground
I am wondering if you just couldn't pull of the top portion that covers the dash to get to the back of the instrument cluster?
Considering the screws to remove the top portion are located behind the dash instrument panel, that would be impossible.
thanks. Well I'm going to dive in. thanks for a great tutorial.
Excellent!
What is a general cost and labor of replacing the whole cluster?
I gotta thank you for the instruction. 3 different shops told me it would be at least $200 just to complete this task. I learned from your video quickly and did it myself in about an hour and 5 bucks later! My next task is the same EVAP problem as this 96 ranger. Any tips? Do I need to drop the tank?
Without knowing the EVAP code it is hard to say, but if the code is P0442 or P0455 your most likely culprit is a loose gas cap. Otherwise if it a solenoid issue the EVAP solenoid on these trucks is conveniently located in the engine bay on the left front of the engine (e.g. drivers side). This truck in my video also had a failed solenoid- Putting 12V to the solenoid failed to make it click and after replacing it the truck later got the P0455 from a disconnected hose. All very minor. I would check these before I considered dropping the gas tank.
I have gotten to the point of pulling the panel out but it won't come out. I'm working on a 90 model. I'm sure that I have all the screws out because it will come out about a 1/2 inch but that's as far as it goes. Am I missing something? Also the only gauges she has working are the gas the tachometer and speedometer. Can these be replaced? Thank you.
+James Montgomery Just remove what's connecting it. It's that simple. Find what is fastening it- remove the fastener, and then remove component.
I hate crooks who intentionally deceive and rip people off.
Is the GE#37 light the one I need to replace the "Airbag" light? Or would I need the #194 light? I hope someone can help me out, please and thanks!
All the small bulbs in the tan modules are #37. The black modules take #194's.
Very informative
Ive got to do this on a 96 Explorer XLT. It looks to be about the same setup though. Can I get these bulbs from AutoZone or any auto parts store, or will I need to get them off of the internet somehow?
Yes autozone has the bulbs in stock. Theyt're all standard.
Thanks.
Thank you very much.
How much are the standard bulbs? And how much are LED bulbs like blue or white? Can you get them in Any auto store?
A comment you might find useful. When removing the bulbs i saw you used a pair of needle nose pliers. i have seen damage circuit sheets from people being careless with these regulier type needle nose. Go to you local electronic supply store and by the small ones. there is less chance of damage. And if you have an auto salvage yard in your area like I do (we actually have 50 or 60), go there and find units already out and just harvest a dozen or so lights. Most yards don't care about the bulbs. It will save you tons on cost of parts.
I indeed have dozens of salvaged bulbs but I never use them for instrument panel or other difficult to access components because you cannot know the longevity remaining, I would very strongly advise against a used bulb for an instrument panel. Compared to the low cost of a new bulb against the effort put into this, I strongly advise new bulbs in this application.
Point taken
My fatherinlaws 1998 Ranger truck is beeping in series of 6 I believe why?
Hi Matt. I have a 95 ford ranger that failed inspection due to high beam indicator light bulb out. Will I find that bulb using your instructions here? If so, could I take this bulb to oreilly or auto zone and get a new one or is this bulb a special order? Thank you
Yes that is located in the same IP panel.
Interesting- didn't know they fail safety for that. Good to know!
Schrodingers Box Hi Matt. I pulled out the instrument panel today. I replaced the hi beam indicator bulb. No luck. Hi beam indicator did not illuminate. Any suggestions?
Israel Franco Well of course- before you would replace an IP bulb you have to diagnose that you actually need a new bulb first!!!! You have to test all the components involved in the circuit and find the fault and repair as necessary. Test the wiring, switch, and verify the absence of the hi beam indicator is not intentional to indicate failure of a high beam bulb operation in the headlamp or something.
Hah, I called Pep-Boys to ask them if they could do this on my truck, and the guy said the light would be a dealer item, so they couldn't do it.
Ha how funny- I buy the bulbs at Pep Boys all the time!!!
Schrodingers Box Well, I took the whole thing apart myself, thanks to you, and am now headed to Pep-Boys to buy the replacement bulb. ETA: And... done. Had to pick a bulb that looked like the right one, because neither PB nor Advance Auto had the right one. But it's working and should pass inspection now.
Thank you
You should try to put the steering wheel down it may helped you to release the cluster much more easy :D keep up the excelent work I´m learning a lot from your´s videos
Steering wheel was down far as it would go
all the bulbs a Ford need need - www.speedometerbulbs.com/collections/ford-gm-chrysler
My 99 Explorer has a cable for shift indicator. Followed your video and when tilting the cluster something popped and I looked see the cable hanging. Now I can't shift into gear.
Just Reconnect it!
@@SchrodingersBox I don't understand how to pull the cluster without doing something about where the cable runs into the cluster. I can't see what the plastic holder connects to. You don't have to reply, I'll try to figure it out. I looked a 3 other similar videos and none mention this problem.
How hard is it to remove the cluster on a 2006 E-250? My cruise control light is out and I am OCD so it has to be fixed!!!!
if you can remove bolts and screws anything is possible to simply replace.
10/4 I'm an electrician so I guess I can do it.
Hello I've skimmed the comments trying to replace th bulbs behind the metal clips as they don't work how would I go about that?
You just remove the bulb like any other bulb.Are you saying you removed the instrument panel but can't figure out how to pull a bulb out????
Schrodingers Box no I know how to pull a bulb out it's just they aren't bright
Kenneth Crisamore Then I would check for voltage drop at the panel. What is the voltage supply and what is the drop while under load?
I don't think its ignorance to use one's own personal experiences to determine whether a certain make of vehicle is likely to be a heap of crap or not. I was once a GM guy. I loved and bought only GM products. Then 4 members of my family and myself all had major problems with our GM vehicles within 18 months of each other. One of the problems was a failed engine that GM would not stand behind. Another was the clear coat started pealing off the paint at less than one year old and GM would not repaint it because it was a pickup truck and they said they don't cover cosmetics on pickup trucks. We are all the type of car owners who have regular maintenance done on our vehicles to make them last as long as we can because none of us are rich. Now I own 3 Ford vehicles and none have given me a minute of trouble and I will never go back to GM. Whether or not all vehicles are essentially the same in termsnof reliability, car MAKERS are not. And GM has made its last dollar off of me.
+Bob Barker Sorry but it is ignorance. Personal experience is the OPPOSITE of unbiased scientific data.