CK NYoC

the light that illuminates the oil temp gauge doesnt light up at night, how can i fix this?

Eh-Pfour

96-97's have bulbs on the back of the cluster.

CK NYoC

i have a 97 how do i change the oil temp bulb?

Stang Guy

I had this problem a few months ago. Remove the cluster and pop a new $4 bulb in there. If you need instructions on how to remove the cluster and the wiring plug let me know. Should take you about 30-45 minutes to accomplish, and all you need is a philips head screwdriver.

CK NYoC

can i have the instructions please, and i get this bulb from the dealer?

Stang Guy

The cluster is held in place by 2 philips screws. To access, remove the plastic cover that is under the cluster and that straddles the steering column by popping it out of its brackets on each side. You may need to use a bit of force, or leverage with a flat blade screwdriver.

At this time it is best to cover the steering column with a soft cloth, and to put the steering wheel in it's lowest position.

Remove the two philips screws retaining the cluster. Then wiggle the cluster out of the dash opening. There are two large plugs that will be attached to the back of the cluster. Begin by removing the one on the left side first (behind the tach). You will need to use the flat blade again to pry the clips up that hold the plug in. Once that is loose you'll have plenty of play in the other wiring harness to turn the cluster around and pop the other connector using the same method.

The only thing connecting the cluster to the car now will be the trip computer. I found it easiest to pop the plastic tabs holding it in and then remove it from the cluster. You will then be able to turn the cluster around and remove the bulb in question.

When you buy the new bulb from the dealer, make sure you get a new plastic holder at the same time. Total cost is about $4. Don't buy the bulb only - you need the holder too. The bulb holder just screws into the back of the cluster nice and easy.

Installation is the reverse, make sure you get the philips screws nice and tight so the cluster doesn't squeak. Also, your airbag light may come on. This is because you unplugged the speedo from the cluster. You can reset it yourself using the ross-tech tool, or just have the dealer do it on your next service. Or, if you are lucky, your dealer may do it free if you stop in (mine did).

This is easy to accomplish, and the delaer will charge you 1 hours labor plus parts to do it. It should take you about 1/2 an hour to an hour (but now that I've done mine about 6 times it takes 15 minutes).

Sorry if this is rushed - I'm on my way out the door. If you need any help let me know, you can post here and I'll see it tomorrow. It's simple - save yourself the dealer headaches and get it done, but make sure you can live with the airbag light!

Andy Hedin

1) The cluster is held in with two Torx-head screws, not Philips.

2) The correct $4 bulb comes with the plastic base attached to it.

Stang Guy

But I used a philips head screwdriver to get the screws out, and the dealer sold me the bulb by itself for about $2 ie no holder.

Thanks for the clarification.

CK NYoC

thanx alot guys