W124 dim dash board lights

[benster]

the dash board lights are really dim to the point I can hardly see them, if a twiddle the little knob that adjusts the brightness they go off or even dimmer it doesn't really do much.
Is it this bit on the back of the dash, any one else have this and how do you rectify it
thanks in advance

 

[robparker]

If you pull the dash out you can always bridge the dimmer reostat on the back

 

[DREAMER NO2]

The rheostat needs replacing,, or do as above and bridge the contacts on the back .But you need to pull out the clock console to see it .

 

[LostKiwi]

Remove the instrument cluster and check the bulbs on the back aren't black/silver/blown

 

[Bogus]

As above, removing the cluster is a simple task, and changing all the bulbs would be a good way to go, they do discolour with age.

 

[benster]

thanks for all that, anyone know how much this rheostat is?, and is it easy to get the cluster out ive seen clips on line, sliding the hooks in and pulling it out, but is it that easy?

 

[Bogus]

thanks for all that, anyone know how much this rheostat is?, and is it easy to get the cluster out ive seen clips on line, sliding the hooks in and pulling it out, but is it that easy?

Its easy, honestly.

 

[brianbrian]

Rheostat, about 20.00 on E.Bay. Got mine from Latvia.

 

[DREAMER NO2]

Just make sure you know where to refit the bulbs .I took pictures with a camera as soon as i could get the camera in the back side of it. And thats the rheostat the square item on the rear of the console.With the 2 screws in This is the picture took when i removed mine .

 

[benster]

thanks for all of that i'll give it a go, I also see on line someone changing the original blubs for led ones, which apparently last longer and are a lot cooler, is it worth doing, anyone else done it?

 

[LostKiwi]

Be very careful using the removal tools. Ensure they are firmly anchored on the back of the instrument cluster and not just latched behind the clear plastic front. If you pull on the clear front it will break.