Gear shift light is not working

1999 FORD ESCORT
167,000 MILES
Avatar
DEB630
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I have no light under my automatic gear shift.I bought this car a few months ago, and have had no major problems. I am just learning to drive, and had not driven at night, so I did not notice this issue until a few days ago when I drove at night for the first time. How do I fix this? Is it a fuse or a bulb? I have the Chilton's manual for my car, and can't seem to find this in it.I'd really rather fix it myself, with the help of my son, than take it to my mechanic.
Jun 8, 2013 at 6:42 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
CADIEMAN
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 3,544 POSTS
the bulb is in the Speedo head. You will need to remove the dash panel and the head assembly. After it is loose you can sneak the bulb out without removing the whole head assembly. Just twist it and pull it out. pull the bulb out of the socket. It is a 191 bulb install it then reassemble everything.
Jun 9, 2013 at 6:21 AM
Avatar
DEB630
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Gear shift is mounted on floor, not steering column.
Jun 11, 2013 at 12:07 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
CADIEMAN
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 3,544 POSTS
remove the console glove box liner then remove the front ashtray then you unscrew the front and unscrew the rear. Lift it up a little bit just replace the bulb. You don't need to take to handle off.
Jun 12, 2013 at 3:03 AM
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 18,907 POSTS
This is relatively easy to repair. You need to remove the bezel from around the shifter and then unscrew the shifter and and the bulb is on the underside of it. You will simply twist it out and replace it.

I included the process to remove the bezel. There are not specific instructions on how to remove the bulb but as I said, once you remove the bezel it will be obvious. I have replaced many of these and they are as easy as I am saying.

Please reach out with questions and I will be happy to assist. Thanks
Images (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Attached Media
Apr 20, 2020 at 5:10 PM