99 S80 dash light issue

Post by **rwaltco** » 23 Jan 2008, 22:38

I have a great running 1999 S80 but I don't seem to have lights behind the dials for the dual temp controls. Maybe there aren't any behind but I'd like to check. How do I open up the lower stack and check.

Post by **billofdurham** » 24 Jan 2008, 12:45

I think there should be lights but don't know whether they are bulbs or LEDs.

I like the 'rectification' instructions near the end.

Bill.

stevick · Post by **stevick** » 26 Jan 2008, 13:11

I did a bulb replacement for the temp control some time back. You will be shocked at what the dealer wants for the tiny bulbs (not LED) involved.

Being the cheapskate that I am, I looked for an alternative. The bulbs are wired onto a plastic base, which are twist-locked into deep wells on the back of the temp control panel you are removing. Using a screwdriver, you should be easily able to turn them (maybe a 1/4 turn) and they can be lifted out. Once out you will find the bulb is a standard 12v incandescent bulb with 2 long thin wires threaded into 2 tiny holes and wound around the base (for making electrical contact). You can carefully unwind the wire and remove the bulb from the base.

Go to Radio Shack (or similar) and find a close match 12v bulb (less that $1) that has a 2-wire lead. The one I found required I break back some of the excess glass near the base to have the bulb seat right in the base. Just thread the wires back through the holes, rewind them on the base, re-install and you are ready to go. Worked just great for me!

Good luck!

Steve K.

2000 S80 2.9 - 255K miles and going strong!

Post by **rwaltco** » 28 Jan 2008, 16:37

Steve, that was good info. However, I still need to know the steps to remove the face plate without breaking tabs or what ever. Also, I think the lights are out in the cruise control buttons on the steering wheel. Any ideas there? In my '97 the bulbs are the same as in a Honda Accord

stevick · Post by **stevick** » 28 Jan 2008, 18:56

The instructions Bill posted (from VADIS) are all you need. In order to avoid breaking the tabs, you only need use care. Make sure you tilt it in the manner shown during removal and re-installation.

As for the lights on your cruise controls on the steering wheel, my understanding was that these (together with sound system controls) were not equipped to light until 2001 models (maybe later). I know mine don't light up on my 2000.

Steve K.

2000 S80 2.9 255K mi.

Post by **rwaltco** » 28 Jan 2008, 21:17

I don't know how I overlooked the first PDF that shows how to remove it and that's exactly what I needed along with your input re the crusie control lighting. Job well done.