Instrument panel backlighting not working

Principles of Operation
Dimmable Backlighting The lighting control module (LCM) generates a variable pulse width modulated (PWM) voltage which is distributed to the dimmable components when the headlamp switch is in the parking lamps or headlamps ON positions. Light intensity is adjusted by rotating the instrument panel dimmer switch. The dimmable backlighting components consist of:

Your best bet might be to have a qualified repair shop check it .

All of these are not working ? Instrument Cluster and Panel Illumination The non-dimmable lighting system illuminates the following components:

• Roof opening panel control switch
• Window control switches
• Door lock control switches
• Sliding backlite window control switch

The dimmable panel lighting system illuminates the following components:

• Adjustable pedal switch
• Manual climate control assembly
• Electronic automatic temperature control (EATC) assembly
• Headlamp switch
• Instrument cluster
• Message center switch
• Audio unit
• Steering wheel audio and climate control switches
• Speed control switches
• Digital versatile disc (DVD) player
• Floor shifter
• Parking aid switch
• Four wheel drive (4WD) switch
• Traction control switch

The instrument panel dimmer switch is a contact switch that signals the desired level of brightness sent to the instrument cluster and dimmable components.
You checked all the fuse's ?

1. Visual Inspection Chart Mechanical Electrical
   • Headlamp switch
   • Central junction box (CJB) fuse(s):
     • 6 (15A)
     • 22 (10A)
   • CJB circuit breaker 401 (30A)
   • Auxiliary relay box 1 fuse 1 (5A)
   • Circuitry
   • Headlamp switch
   • Instrument panel dimmer switch
   • Clockspring
   • Illumination source(s)
   • CJB

Did you check these fuse's in the central junction box and

• Auxiliary relay box 1 fuse 1 (5A) You don't need to check them all ,just the right one's . How did you check them ? pull them out an look ?
• Principles of Operation
  Dimmable Illumination With the parking lamps ON, voltage is supplied to the instrument panel dimmer switch (part of the headlamp switch). The instrument panel dimmer switch then sends a variable pulse width modulated (PWM) voltage to the instrument cluster and other dimmable switches and components.
  Fixed Illumination With the ignition switch in the START or RUN position, the delay accessory relay provides voltage to the non-dimmable switches. The delay accessory relay is controlled through the instrument cluster.
  

Instrument Cluster and Panel Illumination The instrument panel dimmer switch (part of the headlamp switch) allows the brightness level of the backlights and displays to be adjusted dependent upon the headlamp switch position and the instrument panel dimmer switch position. The instrument panel dimmer switch is monitored by the smart junction box (SJB). When the parking lamps are on, the SJB controls the lighting by sending a pulse width modulated (PWM) dimming signal to the dimmable lighted components and a message over the medium speed controller area network (CAN) to the electronic automatic temperature control (EATC) (if equipped), the audio unit and the instrument cluster. The following components are dimmable:

• audio unit
• instrument cluster
• EATC module
• manual temperature control
• steering wheel controls (includes speed control, redundant audio [if equipped], and message center switches [if equipped])
• headlamp switch
• PRNDL display (part of the shifter assembly)
• adjustable pedals switch (if equipped)
• center stack (includes the hazard, traction control, and parking aid switches [if equipped])
• analog clock (if equipped)
• decklid release switch (if equipped)

The following components are not dimmable and are illuminated when the ignition switch is in the ON position:

• auxiliary climate control switches (if equipped)
• door lock control switches
• window control switches
• Inspection and Verification
  
  1. Verify the customer concern.
  1. Visually inspect for obvious signs of electrical damage.
     
     Visual Inspection Chart Electrical
     • Smart junction box (SJB) fuse 15 (10A)
     • Bulb(s)
     • Circuitry
     • Manual temperature control
     • Steering wheel controls
     • PRNDL display
     • Adjustable pedal switch (if equipped)
     • Center stack switches (includes the hazard, traction control [if equipped], and parking aid disable switches [if equipped])
     • Analog clock (if equipped)
     • Decklid release switch (if equipped)
     • Auxiliary climate control switches (if equipped)
     • Door lock control switches
     • Window control switches
     • Headlamp switch
     • Electronic automatic temperature control (EATC) module and switches
     • Audio unit
     • SJB
     • Instrument cluster
  1. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.
  1. Verify the exterior lamps operate correctly. If the exterior lamps do not operate correctly, refer to Section 417-01 to continue diagnosis of the exterior lamps.
  1. If the cause is not visually evident, connect the diagnostic tool to the data link connector (DLC) and select the vehicle to be tested from the diagnostic tool menu. If the diagnostic tool does not communicate with the vehicle:
  • check that the program card is correctly installed.
  • check the connections to the vehicle.
  • check the ignition switch position.
  1. If the diagnostic tool still does not communicate with the vehicle, refer to the diagnostic tool operating manual.
  1. Carry out the diagnostic tool data link test. If the diagnostic tool responds with:
  • CAN circuits fault; all electronic control units no response/not equipped, refer to Section 418-00 .
  • No response/not equipped for SJB, refer to Section 419-10 .
  • No response/not equipped for instrument cluster, refer to Section 413-01 .
  • System passed, retrieve and record the continuous diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), erase the continuous DTCs, and carry out the self-test diagnostics for the SJB and the instrument cluster.
  1. If the DTCs retrieved are related to the concern, go to the Smart Junction Box (SJB) Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index.
  1. If no DTCs related to the concern are retrieved, GO to Symptom Chart . Smart Junction Box (SJB) Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index DTC Description Source Action B1247 Panel Dim Switch Circuit Open SJB Go To Pinpoint Test F . B2026 Incandescent Backlighting Output Circuit Failure SJB Go To Pinpoint Test D . B2027 LED Backlighting Output Circuit Failure SJB Go To Pinpoint Test D . All other DTCs - SJB REFER to Section 419-10 .
  Your best bet , take it to a qualified repair shop.

Principles of Operation
The instrument cluster and panel illumination consists of dimmable and non-dimmable illumination components. The dimmable illumination is controlled by the instrument panel dimmer switch, which allows the brightness level of the backlights to be adjusted to the customer preferences. With the parking lamps ON, the instrument panel dimmer switch uses electronic circuitry to provide a variable pulse width modulated (PWM) output to the instrument panel and all applicable switches depending on the driver-controlled level of intensity. The headlamp switch backlighting consists of 2 constantly illuminated LED bulbs that are powered by separate circuits. Battery voltage is supplied to the first bulb when the ignition switch is in the RUN position. Battery voltage is supplied to the second bulb with the parking lamps ON. The non-dimmable illumination allows for full intensity dependant on the ignition switch position.

Inspection and Verification

1. Verify the customer concern.

1. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical or electrical damage.

Visual Inspection Chart Mechanical Electrical

• Headlamp switch
• Instrument panel dimmer switch

• Circuitry
• Connector(s)
• Headlamp switch
• Instrument panel dimmer switch
• Illumination source(s)

1. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct he cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.

1. If the cause is not visually evident, verify the symptom and GO to Symptom Chart .

Symptom Chart
Symptom Chart Condition Possible Sources Action

• The control illumination is inoperative

• Headlamp switch
• Circuitry

• Go To Pinpoint Test A .

• The instrument cluster illumination is inoperative

• Circuitry
• Instrument cluster

• Go To Pinpoint Test B .

• The climate control panel illumination is inoperative

• Circuitry
• Climate control panel

• Go To Pinpoint Test C .

• The audio unit illumination is inoperative

• Circuitry
• Audio unit

• Go To Pinpoint Test D .

• The transmission control lever illumination is inoperative

• Circuitry
• Transmission control lever illumination bulb

• Go To Pinpoint Test E .

• The hazard warning switch illumination is inoperative

• Circuitry
• Hazard warning switch

• Go To Pinpoint Test F .

• The traction control switch illumination is inoperative

• Circuitry
• Traction control switch

• Go To Pinpoint Test G .

• The window control switch illumination is inoperative

• Circuitry
• Window control switch

• VERIFY the operation of the window control switch in question. If the window control switch is inoperative, REFER to Section 501-11 . If the window control switch operates correctly, INSTALL the new window control switch in question. REFER to Section 501-11 .

• The instrument panel illumination does not dim

• Headlamp switch
• Circuitry

• Go To Pinpoint Test H .

Pinpoint Test B: The Instrument Cluster Illumination Is Inoperative
Normal Operation A variable pulse width modulated (PWM) voltage is supplied to the instrument cluster through circuit 29S-LA31 (OG/BU). The instrument cluster is grounded through circuit 91-GG14 (BK/OG).

Possible Causes
• circuit 29S-LA31 (OG/BU) open
• circuit 91-GG14 (BK/OG) open
• instrument cluster

PINPOINT TEST B: THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER ILLUMINATION IS INOPERATIVE CAUTION: Use the correct probe adaptor(s) when making measurements. Failure to use the correct probe adaptor(s) may damage the connector.

Are these the lights you are talking about ?
Instrument Cluster and Panel Illumination The instrument cluster and panel illumination is used to provide backlighting to the instrument panel, switches, and control components when the headlamp switch is in either the PARKING LAMPS ON or HEADLAMPS ON position. The level of intensity is adjustable by rotating the instrument panel dimmer switch either up to increase intensity or down to decrease intensity.
Fixed Backlighting When the accessory delay relay is energized, switched voltage is supplied to the non-dimmable components and switches.
Dimmable Backlighting When the parking lamps or the headlamps are in the ON position the smart junction box (SJB) monitors the input from the instrument panel dimmer switch. The SJB sends a pulse-width modulated (PWM) voltage to the dimmable components and switches based on input received from the instrument panel dimmer switch. The SJB also sends a message over the controller area network (CAN) to the audio unit, and the instrument cluster to indicate the backlighting intensity level.
If you don't know about PWM an smart junction box your better off taking your vehicle to a quailified repair shop ! You don't the diagnostic tools or technical information . May have DTC'S - diagnostic trouble codes stored in the SJB (computer ). Do you know where SJB is located ?
Visual Inspection Chart Electrical

• Smart junction box (SJB) fuse 23 (15A)
• Bulb(s)
• Circuitry
• Connectors
• Illumination source(s)
• Auxiliary climate control switches (if equipped)
• Door lock control switches
• Window control switches
• Headlamp switch
• Dual electronic automatic temperature control (DEATC) module
• Audio unit
• SJB
• Instrument cluster

1. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.

1. If the cause is not visually evident, connect the diagnostic tool to the data link connector (DLC) and select the vehicle to be tested from the diagnostic tool menu. If the diagnostic tool does not communicate with the vehicle:

• check that the program card is correctly installed.
• check the connections to the vehicle.
• check the ignition switch position.

1. If the diagnostic tool still does not communicate with the vehicle, refer to the diagnostic tool operating manual.

1. Carry out the diagnostic tool data link test. If the diagnostic tool responds with:

• CAN circuits fault; all electronic control units no response/not equipped, refer to Section 418-00 .
• No response/not equipped for SJB, refer to Section 419-10 .
• System passed, retrieve and record the continuous diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), erase the continuous DTCs, and carry out the self-test diagnostics for the SJB.

1. If the DTCs retrieved are related to the concern, go to the Smart Junction Box (SJB) Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index.

1. If no DTCs related to the concern are retrieved, GO to Symptom Chart .
2. • The control illumination is inoperative
   • Fuse
   • Smart junction box (SJB)
   • Go To Pinpoint Test A .
   • The instrument cluster illumination is inoperative
   • Instrument cluster
   • CHECK the audio unit illumination for correct operation.
     • If the audio unit illumination operates correctly, INSTALL a new instrument cluster. REFER to Section 413-01 . TEST the system for normal operation.
     • If the audio unit illumination does not operate correctly, REFER to Section 418-00 to continue diagnosis of the communications network.
   • The audio unit illumination is inoperative
   • Audio unit
   • CHECK the instrument cluster illumination for correct operation.
     • If the instrument cluster illumination operates correctly, REMOVE the audio unit. REFER to Section 415-01 . SEND it to an authorized repair facility. TEST the system for normal operation after the repair.
     • If the instrument cluster illumination does not operate correctly, REFER to Section 418-00 to continue diagnosis of the communications network.

Could have a wiring problem , a wiring pin backed out of a connector ! If you don't know about automotive electrical an wiring diagrams an electrical wiring trouble shooting I suggest you take it to a ASE certified repair shop .
Instrument Cluster and Panel Illumination The instrument cluster and panel illumination is used to provide backlighting to the instrument panel, switches, and control components when the headlamp switch is in either the PARKING LAMPS ON or HEADLAMPS ON position. The level of intensity is adjustable by pushing the instrument panel dimmer switch either up to increase intensity or down to decrease intensity.
The dimmable backlighting components are:

• Instrument cluster
• Hazard switch
• Rear defroster switch
• Message center switches
• Parking aid switch (if equipped)
• Transmission range selector
• Fog lamp switch

The non-dimmable backlighting components are:

• Driver front door lock and power window control switch
• Passenger front door lock and power window control switch
• Driver rear door power window control switch
• Passenger rear door power window control switch

Principles of Operation
The instrument cluster sends a signal to the instrument panel dimmer switch. The instrument cluster provides a variable pulse width modulated (PWM) signal to the dimmable backlighting components in accordance with the position of the instrument panel dimmer switch.

1. Verify the customer concern.

1. Visually inspect the following for obvious signs of mechanical or electrical damage.
   
   Visual Inspection Chart Mechanical Electrical
   • Instrument panel dimmer switch
   • Smart junction box (SJB) fuse(s):
     • 7 (10A)
     • 15 (30A)
   • Circuitry
   • Illumination bulbs
   • Instrument cluster
   • SJB
   1. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.
   1. NOTE: Make sure to use the latest scan tool release software.
      If the cause is not visually evident, connect the scan tool to the data link connector (DLC).
   1. NOTE: The vehicle communication module (VCM) LED prove-out confirms power and ground from the DLC are provided to the VCM.
      If the scan tool does not communicate with the VCM:
      • Check the VCM connection to the vehicle.
      • Check the scan tool connection to the VCM.
      • Refer to Section 418-00 , No Power To The Scan Tool, to diagnose no communication with the scan tool.
   1. If the scan tool does not communicate with the vehicle:
      • Verify the ignition key is in the ON position.
      • Verify the scan tool operation with a known good vehicle.
      • Refer to Section 418-00 to diagnose no response from the powertrain control module (PCM).
   1. Carry out the network test.
      • If the scan tool responds with no communication for one or more modules, refer to Section 418-00 .
      • If the network test passes, retrieve and record the continuous memory DTCs.
   1. Clear the continuous DTCs and carry out the self-test diagnostics for the instrument cluster.
   1. If the DTCs retrieved are related to the concern, go to the Instrument Cluster Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Index. For all other DTCs, refer to Section 419-10 .
   1. If no DTCs related to the concern are retrieved, GO to Symptom Chart .

Symptom Chart Condition Possible Sources Action

• One or more module-controlled illumination source(s) is inoperative

• Circuitry
• Inoperative illumination source component

• Go To Pinpoint Test A .

A2 CHECK VOLTAGE TO THE INOPERATIVE ILLUMINATION SOURCE

• Key in OFF position.
• Disconnect: Inoperative Illumination Source Connector.
• Key in ON position.
• Place the headlamp switch in the PARKING LAMPS ON position.
• Measure the voltage between the inoperative illumination source, harness side and ground according to the following table:
  
  Illumination Source Connector- Pin Circuit Rear window defrost switch C2340-3 19 (LB/RD) Hazard flasher switch C2039-8 19 (LB/RD) Parking aid disable switch C2339-3 19 (LB/RD) Message center INFO switch C269a-3 19 (LB/RD) Message center SET switch C269b-3 19 (LB/RD) Transmission range selector C2096-4 19 (LB/RD) Fog lamp switch C2341-3 19 (LB/RD)
  
• Is the voltage greater than 10 volts?

Principles of Operation
The instrument cluster sends a signal to the instrument panel dimmer switch. The instrument cluster provides a variable pulse width modulated (PWM) signal to the dimmable backlighting components in accordance with the position of the instrument panel dimmer switch.

• The instrument cluster illumination is inoperative

• Instrument cluster

• INSTALL a new instrument cluster. REFER to Section 413-01 . TEST the system for normal operation.

SJB -location below center of instrument panel
Inspection and Verification

1. Verify the customer concern.

1. Visually inspect the following for obvious signs of mechanical or electrical damage.
   
   Visual Inspection Chart Mechanical Electrical
   • Instrument panel dimmer switch
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Smart junction box (SJB) fuse(s):
     • 7 (10A)
     • 15 (30A)
   • Circuitry
   • Illumination bulbs
   • Instrument cluster
   • SJB

What lights are not working ? The instrument cluster illumination is inoperative or all the lights ,radio , heater control head, all the switches that would be back lighted.

The climate control panel illumination is inoperative , The passenger door lock control switch illumination is inoperative. Could need new dimmer switch , new instrument cluster. When installing a new instrument cluster, it is necessary to upload the module configuration to the scan tool. Following installation of the new instrument cluster, download the module configuration from the scan tool into the new instrument cluster. Refer to Section 418-01 .

Might be using the current for the cluster lights to power the radio, or a problem with the ground connection.
Check the wires you connected the radio to.
Try unplugging the radio to see if the lights work again.

The dash lights go into the rear of the instrument panel cluster which means that you have to remove the panel to replace them. I believe you have to first remove the trim from around the cluster [usually it's held in by plastic clips] then there are a few screws that hold the cluster assembly to the dash. Once these are out the cluster can be removed and the bulbs replaced. I always replace all the bulbs since it seems that once one bulb fails the rest start to fail soon afterwards.