2005 Ranger, 4.0L, 4x2

When the headlights are turned on, the dashboard lights for the gauges and the taillights do not work. The other indicators on the dash (battery, door ajar, etc) work fine, and the headlights and brake lights work.

I've checked the fuses and none appear to need replacement, although, I do not have a multimeter to check beyond a visual inspection.


Any advice is appreciated.

Thanks,
Jack

 

F2.1 5 amp is the fuse for Dimming module, the wheel

That fuse AND the Parking lights get power from F2.31 20 amp fuse

The F2.31 fuse's power is passed thru the Parking Light Relay to the tail lights and dimming module, when you turn Main Light switch to parking lights that relay closes, and stays closed when you turn main switch to head lights

So if the F2.31 fuse is blown then no instrument lights and no tail lights
OR if the Parking Light Relay is bad same thing


But..........do the instrument lights and tail lights work when just the Parking lights are on and then go off when head lights are on?

Or are they off in both positions?

If they work in one position and not the other then Main Light switch could be at at fault

 

if you find the solution please let me know I am having the same issue in my 2003 4.0 L

 

its your airbag unhooked or not working most likely. Sounds crazy but give it a shot

 

This may not be related. But I once had a 1962 Mercedes that was programmed to shut off the dash lights if the tail lights failed. It was meant to make the driver stop driving until the tail lights were fixed! It didnt work because I didnt know that it was a warning so I kept driving using my wifes compact mirror and the reflections from the on comming headlights to read the dash. I drove over 100 miles in Mexico in the dark with NO TAILLIGHTS!!! I am lucky to be alive.