Hi all,

I have a 2010 Caravan SE with about 30,000 miles on it. About 2 weeks ago, the backlighting lighting up the 3 center gauges suddenly stopped working. The gauges (speed, tach, etc.) function fine, it's just that they are totally dark at night. All other dashboard warning lights, turn signals, radio, etc. seem to work fine. The only issue is that the light illuminating the 3 gauges is totally out.

When adjusted, the dimmer switch does change the brightness level of the LEDs for the odometer, temperature, radio, etc., so I think that the switch itself is okay.

In doing some reading, it was suggested that I reset the van's computer by disconnecting the battery. I disconnected the negative terminal and let it sit for about 15 minutes, but the problem was not fixed. Last night, I disconnected it again, and let it sit, overnight, for about 8 hours. Still not fixed.

Also, just for kicks, I plugged my OBDII reader into the van, ran a full scan, and it did not report any errors.

I cannot find what fuse or relay might be affecting the backlighting. Any idea?

Any other suggestions or things to try?

Thanks, in advance, for any ideas!

-Dave

 

Well, for starters an OBD scanner wont help you on a CAN BUS vehicle. Second that cluster is the Body Controller. I don't suggest you mess with it as you could get yourself in quite a pickle.

Take it to the dealer. You're still under 3/36 warranty. There is no need to be working on your own car at this point. If you want answers to some questions ask them to let you talk to the technician.

 

Hey man , It sounds like a bad switch relay ? I agree while you still have warrenty take it back to the dealer before it's too late !!! I have a new 2010 caravan so I would like too also know ?? please up date us on the final problem & fix . thanks Duane

 

/\ ...What's a SWITCH RELAY?

 

Phantom voltage ?? " relay " = bad switch ??

 

I was thinking maybe some bulbs are burnt out,but now am confuse about the switch relay??????????????????????????????????????//

 

This will be the first 2010 cluster i've seen go bad. Oh well, some things never change.

 

Hey Men , I an old 1966 tech graduate . Back then tec was primitive ! "phantom" ghost" a break down in contunity ! loose ground ? broke wire ? low voltage ? bad cell ? weak capacator ? or a switch with oxidized contacts that carry ohms an no amps will fool you every time !!! I would check the main head light switch 1st ! This will be the easiest to access & make repairs .sounds like the dash light fader went on the dig ? I'd check the fuses 1st ! 2nd I'd do the dome light . See if the dome light burns an then adjust to just below the off position .With no luck ! I would be Dodge Dealer bound !! just an ole Tech's thoughts Duane

 

I would take the van to the dealer and have them inspect the cluster for any problems. That was way back when you used Ohms Law.

 

How long of a course was that in 1966? What was your hourly pay back then?