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replacing lights in steering wheel controls???


rdwrr
03-11-2004, 05:06 PM
Does anyone know how to replace the lights for the steering wheel controls in a 2001 Aurora? My radio volume, and a couple of the other toggle switches mounted into the steering wheel don't light up anymore. Any tips would be appreciated. I don't want to break anything.

apostolakisl
03-11-2004, 09:19 PM
Yes, but it wasn't super easy. The switches will pop out of the steering wheel with a gentle prying action (both switches come out as one piece on each side). I suggest you do it when the interior of the car is warm so the plastic is soft and won't crack. Once you get them out unplug the wire harness. The light bulbs were not designed to be replaced so you either have to buy new switches or you have to do some soldering. Disassmble the switches (be careful as there are several small pieces that you can drop and lose). The bulbs can then be popped off of the circuit board along with the white bracket that holds them. You need to take the bulb out and remove the colored plastic condomn that gives it the bluish/green color. Go to radio shack and pick up a new bulb (I think they were 50 milliamps, but I could be wrong on that). Put the condomn on the new bulb and solder it to the contacts on the circuit board (don't try to use the white plastic brackets). Then put it all together again.

rdwrr
03-11-2004, 09:58 PM
Thanks a lot. I will try it as soon as it warms up around here.

Indy8
03-12-2004, 01:27 AM
All the original instrumentation bulbs still work in my 1984 Toyota Celica, Hmmm........

rdwrr
03-12-2004, 06:11 AM
I'd rather drive a nice car with an insignificant little burned out bulb, than a brightly lit ugly one hmmm.......

taylal23
04-08-2004, 03:38 PM
I have a 2001 too and 3 of the 4 steering wheel control lights are out on mine too. I called the dealer and he said the switches are about $38 each. I've had mine a 1 1/2 years and still haven't replaced them. Is there any risk of setting off the airbag?

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