So the other day my bud and I were trying to figure out why my dash lights wont light up. All the lights on the dash BUT the instrument lights wont light. We went behind the dashboard and replaced all the bulbs which most of them were burnt out. But it would still not light up. All the fuses are in order. Someone told me that the dash lights could be circuited with the dome light, which I do no have. So I am going to put in the dome lights hopefully soon. But I don't really think that is the issue. I have a 95' Ford Ranger XLT.
Any input on how to fix this would be great. Thanks

 

It could be they are turned off. Look for the dimmer wheel/switch and see if it is turned down too far.

 

The dimmer switch works, when its all the way up the lights on the radio works fine. When it clicks all the way up the cargo light turns on too. And one thing on the dash, the brake lights, seat belt lights, overhead light, etc. Lights up. Its just the instrument lights that wont light.

 

If just the instrument lights aren't working, pull the instrument module.
Check the flexible PCB on the back for crimping, poor connections, breaks in the etching.
While the module is out, check to see if the wire for the dimming has power on it.

 

The dimmer switch was working. I got back behind the dash agian and brushed the connectors cause it looks a bit dusty...oddly enough that did it. Newbie Mistake -.-

Thank you for the reply. If something else arises that concerns the dash lights I will check all the wiring.

 

Don't fret over a "neewbie" type mistake. In my haste to install a new anti slosh module on the backside of the cluster of my 2000 Ranger (gas guage was not registering full; all other tests of the guage checked out), I disturbed one of the dash bulbs apparently, and now the speedometer left side does not light up.

Arg! I now get to pull that cluster again just to replace the bulb. While it's out, I plan to do them all.