How do you get to the dash lights to replace the bulbs?

You have to reach in behind the dash cluster. Remove the bulb carrier you think it is and then shine a light up behind there. If the engine check light glows, you have the right one.

https://www.google.com/search?safe=off&rlz=1C1QJDB_enCA643CA644&sxsrf=ALeKk00HnsKo-A4jm4zMOlsclxR-GVt_SQ%3A1614307528864&ei=yGA4YJ-XNKiJggfEh6TYDA&q=2001+Ford+Escort+ZX2+replace+check+engine+light+bulb

..

In the diagram, see instrument cluster bulbs. The top color is voltage, bottom color wire is ground. That is what I'd want to check, voltage and ground.

Escape City - Ford Escape Forums - Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner ...

escape-city.com > The Garage > Problems And Solutions

Mar 11, 2013 - 10 posts
Ford Escape Forums, Ford Escape Hybrid, 2013 Ford Escape ... Every light on thedash cluster works even the gas gauge needle ... There was no disassembly required for me, the bulbs were in plastic holders that just twisted out the back of theinstrument panel. .... Copyright © 2007-2015 by Escape City.

Dash Bulb Replacement - The Chrysler Minivan Fan Club Forums

forum.chryslerminivan.net/showthread.../24019-Dash-Bulb-Replacement

May 25, 2012 - 7 posts - ‎5 authors
On a 2005 T&C, I have two bulbs out in my dash. One behind the fuel gauge and another behind the tach. I can still ... Generation Chrysler Minivans: 2001-2007; DashBulb Replacement .... 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid - 2.3L, 131K ... Chrysler Light Trucks · Chrysler SUV/Crossover Vehicles · Chrysler Full Size ...

Dash board lights - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

You have to remove the instrument cluster from the vehicle and the bulbs are replaces from the backside.

The dash cluster has to come out, to get to the bulbs. The battery has to be disconnected. dash bezel around the cluster will pop off,usually a small flat screwdriver will help pop off the bezel. be careful not break the bezel, very thin abs material. after removing bezel, there will be maybe 4-6 small screws holding the cluster in. remove these screws and the cluster will pull out, be careful her also as there are wire behind here and connected to the cluster. the bulb will easily come out with a slight turn.

It may not be a bulb, as the instrument cluster usually has a number of bulbs and they probably didn't all blow at once. Pulling instrument clusters can be touchy and may not be for the average "shadetree mechanic" however, typically there are a few screws above the cluster going into the dash pad and a few hidden behind the trim panels below the cluster.

any parts store sells them...

Just remove the 4 screws and then slowly pull the cluster out and reach behind and disconnect the plugs on the back of the unit and then remove the cluster. The bulbs can be removed by turning them and pulling out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84FAjLxoK00

it's more likely to be a blown bulb. when you say dashboard are you talking about the climate control lights or the gauge cluster lights...??? In both cases it's more likely to be a blown bulb than fuse and fuse are all behind the pocket under the dimmer switch for the gauge cluster.