Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ radiator

Instrument cluster lights

Mhansen1357

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Dec 1, 2024
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Exeter California
I have a 2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ. A few days ago I was driving In town and noticed that my back cluster lights were not working when I turned on my lights. I've checked all the fuses with non that needed to be replaced. Checked all the ground wires. Everthing looked good. I pulled my stero thinking that a wire had come loose. Everthing looked normal. I've looked at the multi functioning switch. wires looked good. Is there something I'm missing to check? I even pulled the cluster and replaced all the bulbs. I appreciate any feedback back.
 
I have a 2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ. A few days ago I was driving In town and noticed that my back cluster lights were not working when I turned on my lights. I've checked all the fuses with non that needed to be replaced. Checked all the ground wires. Everthing looked good. I pulled my stero thinking that a wire had come loose. Everthing looked normal. I've looked at the multi functioning switch. wires looked good. Is there something I'm missing to check? I even pulled the cluster and replaced all the bulbs. I appreciate any feedback back.

Since you've checked the fuses, grounds, and replaced the bulbs, here are a few more things you might want to consider:
  • Wiring Harness: Double-check the connections and wiring harness that connects to the instrument cluster. Sometimes, there can be corrosion or loose connections that aren’t immediately obvious.
  • Dimmer Switch: Make sure your dimmer switch isn’t faulty. It’s possible the switch isn’t sending power to the back lights. If you have a multimeter, you can test the switch to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
  • Voltage Tester: While you have the cluster out, use a voltage tester to check if power is reaching the cluster when the lights are turned on. This can help you identify if the issue is upstream of the cluster.
  • Cluster Circuit Board: Inspect the circuit board for any cracks or damage. Sometimes solder joints can crack over time, leading to issues with specific lights.
  • Check Related Components: Issues can sometimes arise from related components. Look into the headlight switch and any associated relays that may affect power to the instrument cluster.
  • Grounding Issues: While you mentioned checking ground wires, it's crucial to ensure that the cluster has a solid ground connection. Ground issues can sometimes be tricky, so it might be worth inspecting other ground points as well.
 
Since you've checked the fuses, grounds, and replaced the bulbs, here are a few more things you might want to consider:
  • Wiring Harness: Double-check the connections and wiring harness that connects to the instrument cluster. Sometimes, there can be corrosion or loose connections that aren’t immediately obvious.
  • Dimmer Switch: Make sure your dimmer switch isn’t faulty. It’s possible the switch isn’t sending power to the back lights. If you have a multimeter, you can test the switch to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
  • Voltage Tester: While you have the cluster out, use a voltage tester to check if power is reaching the cluster when the lights are turned on. This can help you identify if the issue is upstream of the cluster.
  • Cluster Circuit Board: Inspect the circuit board for any cracks or damage. Sometimes solder joints can crack over time, leading to issues with specific lights.
  • Check Related Components: Issues can sometimes arise from related components. Look into the headlight switch and any associated relays that may affect power to the instrument cluster.
  • Grounding Issues: While you mentioned checking ground wires, it's crucial to ensure that the cluster has a solid ground connection. Ground issues can sometimes be tricky, so it might be worth inspecting other ground points as well.

Thank you I will dig deeper with the information given.
 
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Since you've checked the fuses, grounds, and replaced the bulbs, here are a few more things you might want to consider:
  • Wiring Harness: Double-check the connections and wiring harness that connects to the instrument cluster. Sometimes, there can be corrosion or loose connections that aren’t immediately obvious.
  • Dimmer Switch: Make sure your dimmer switch isn’t faulty. It’s possible the switch isn’t sending power to the back lights. If you have a multimeter, you can test the switch to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
  • Voltage Tester: While you have the cluster out, use a voltage tester to check if power is reaching the cluster when the lights are turned on. This can help you identify if the issue is upstream of the cluster.
  • Cluster Circuit Board: Inspect the circuit board for any cracks or damage. Sometimes solder joints can crack over time, leading to issues with specific lights.
  • Check Related Components: Issues can sometimes arise from related components. Look into the headlight switch and any associated relays that may affect power to the instrument cluster.
  • Grounding Issues: While you mentioned checking ground wires, it's crucial to ensure that the cluster has a solid ground connection. Ground issues can sometimes be tricky, so it might be worth inspecting other ground points as well.

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I am getting the same codes on my dash when I run a test. Should I replace the multi functioning switch? The turn signal and headlight still work it's just the dimmer is not responding and the dash light don't come on when I turned on the headlights
 
I am getting the same codes on my dash when I run a test. Should I replace the multi functioning switch? The turn signal and headlight still work it's just the dimmer is not responding and the dash light don't come on when I turned on the headlights

It sounds like the multifunction switch could indeed be the culprit, especially since your dimmer isn’t responding. Just to recap, if the turn signals and headlights are functioning properly, it suggests that some circuits in the switch are working, but the dimmer function may be faulty.

Here are a few steps you could take before deciding to replace the switch:
  1. If you haven’t already, use a multimeter to test the dimmer switch’s output when you turn it. It should provide varying voltage levels that correspond with the dim setting. If it’s not producing any voltage or consistent readings, that’s a strong indicator the switch may need replacing.
  2. Inspect the wiring leading to the switch for any signs of damage or wear. Sometimes, wires can short out or break internally, causing erratic behavior.
  3. Ensure that there aren’t any other underlying issues, such as a malfunctioning relay or a bad ground specifically for the dash lights.
  4. If testing confirms that the dimmer function is faulty, and there are no additional issues found, replacing the multifunction switch would be a good next step. These switches can wear out over time, and intermittent failure of certain functions is a common issue.
After replacing the switch, run the test again to see if that resolves the issue with the dash lights. Good luck, and keep us updated on what you find!
 
It sounds like the multifunction switch could indeed be the culprit, especially since your dimmer isn’t responding. Just to recap, if the turn signals and headlights are functioning properly, it suggests that some circuits in the switch are working, but the dimmer function may be faulty.

Here are a few steps you could take before deciding to replace the switch:
  1. If you haven’t already, use a multimeter to test the dimmer switch’s output when you turn it. It should provide varying voltage levels that correspond with the dim setting. If it’s not producing any voltage or consistent readings, that’s a strong indicator the switch may need replacing.
  2. Inspect the wiring leading to the switch for any signs of damage or wear. Sometimes, wires can short out or break internally, causing erratic behavior.
  3. Ensure that there aren’t any other underlying issues, such as a malfunctioning relay or a bad ground specifically for the dash lights.
  4. If testing confirms that the dimmer function is faulty, and there are no additional issues found, replacing the multifunction switch would be a good next step. These switches can wear out over time, and intermittent failure of certain functions is a common issue.
After replacing the switch, run the test again to see if that resolves the issue with the dash lights. Good luck, and keep us updated on what you find!
Will do. Thank you again for your help.
 
Update: The back cluster lights are back up and running. I ran through what was suggested and determined that the cluster wire was receiving the proper volts. I sent the cluster out to get tested and was told that the clusters electrical was bad. paid the service to have it fixed. Thanks for your help.
 
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Novak Conversions Jeep Wrangler TJ radiator