Vectra dashboard backlighting

[TFS]

The backlighting on my Vectra ('98, 1.8LS) dashboard has stopped working. When the side/head lights are switched on the backlighting for the 'multi function display' works ok and can be dimmed etc, as can the radio backlight and temp controller etc etc. However, the backlighting for all the dashboard dials (speedo, RPM, fuel etc) does not work at all.

As the lighting is supplied form many bulbs and they were all working not so long ago I imagine it's a connector problem somewhere. Does anyone know of an easy way of getting to the appropriate connector, hopefully there's an easy way without removing the whole dash (looks like a right pain in the arse job!)

heers,

TFS

[wiggi28]

mmmmmm vectras !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

when one backlight bulb on the vectras go thr others usually follow in quick succession and yes its a tw4t of a job
remove headlight switch and vent above release screws behind headlight switch and also behind vent
remove colum surround and then look just below the mileage indicator in the colum to see two screws which will need removing <try using a long driver passed thriugh the steering wheel
remove both center vents and remove screws behind then pull centre section away watch the screws you removed from in the colum dont sctratch the clear plastic cover for the clocks then reove the others sidi the same
unscrew the four screws holdind the clockunit in then pull clocks towards you so you can release the plug which supplys in info panel
then slide the clocks out towards the passanger seat is best
please note dont leave the keys in at any time as this will cause the airbag light to come on
good luck and may the force be with you :thumbs :thumbs :thumbs

[TFS]

Thanks for the reply mate, I was really hoping there was an easier way of getting at the connector which supplies the power/input for these bulbs. The first time all the backlights went out I was driving at the time, I gave the dash a 'thump' and they all came back on! It was about a month later that they all went out again, so I'm pretty sure that the bulbs haven't blown. Can anyone describe exactly where the connector for these bulbs is and if it's possible to give it a bit of a prod without opening the whole dash?

Cheers,

TFS

[urbsy]

The vectra cluster works on a fixed point setup, whereas the wiring plug is fixed to the car and the clock cluster fixes into it. Its a right pain as it causes no end of problems as the cluster moves and the wiring doesn't.
Theres no easy way to check it afaik, wiggis explanation of the process of removing the clocks to access them is absolutely spot on. Top post m8.

urbsy

[wiggi28]

if you remove the clocks you will see the how the info and power is transferred to the clocks this connection is cheep and nasty and is also prone to corrotion

to counter act this lighty rub the copper foil circuit with very fine emry cloth/paper (600 grit ) to revive the connections
:thumbs
this usually works fine