Several instrument panel lights on our 2002 Grand Caravan ES (105,000 miles) appear to be out. We can still see most everything but there is a "dim" area on the left side of the speedometer and another on the front panel climate controls (all digital controls). Our local Dodge dealer advised that we'd have to replace the entire instrument panel because the individual lights cannot be replaced. Can this be right? We bought the van new and would like to keep it several more years but I'm not sure we want to go to the expected expense for something that is only a nuisance right now. Any ideas or suggestions? Our son-in-law said get a new van.

 

You can't replace the warning indicator lights but you should be able to replace the cluster illumination lights.
I just replaced 2 bulbs in mine.
You can't replace just the glass bulb you have to buy the bulb and socket assembly. This makes a 50c bulb cost $5.
The cluster is easy to remove though.

 

Thanks for the reply. How do you get to these cluster illuminators? Do you have to go the dealer to get the bulb and socket or can you get them at Auto Zone?

 

Remover the black Bezel (Trim) around the cluster (4 screws, 2 are hidden)
remove the Gauge Cluster (4 more Phillips head screws and 1 big electrical plug)
Flip the cluster over and you will see these grey tabs. they are the bulb/socket assembly.
Use some needle nose pliers to twist counter clock wise (abt a 1/4 turn) to remove from the cluster.

If you take one of the bulbs to the parts store they can probably match it up. Dealer will have the part but will definitely cost more.

I went to the junk yard and snagged a whole bunch.

Here is a tip when you have the cluster removed. Flip it over so the back is facing you and plug it back in. Turn on the lights and you will see exactly which bulbs are burnt out. There are about 10 bulbs.
Good luck