Dashboard lights not working intermittently

2008 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
98,000 MILES • 2.7L • 6 CYL
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CRAIG MILLER
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  • 2 POSTS
Dash lights come on sometimes and sometimes do not when car is started up. Sometimes flipping the switch on and off numerous times it will come on.
Dec 26, 2020 at 1:35 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

When you say dash lights, are you referring to the lights which illuminate the panel or do you mean specifically lights like warning lights, parking brake light, and so on?

If it is the lights that illuminate the cluster, do the interior lights (dome lights) do the same thing? When you say flipping the switch several times, are you referring to the headlamp switch or the ignition key?

Let me know.

Joe
Dec 27, 2020 at 9:30 PM
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CRAIG MILLER
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The only lights that are affected are the lights that handle the speedometer and RPM's. All the others work fine. I turn the handle on the left hand switch to turn the lights on and off for those lights. Nothing with the head lamp or any other lights.
Dec 28, 2020 at 4:40 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

Since they work at times, then we know it isn't a fuse related issue. So, either we have a weak connection at the instrument cluster or a weak ground.

If you look at the attached pics, they show power (via a black/orange wire) to the instrument cluster. Also, it shows the rheostat ground for the lighting. What you need to do is first check to make sure the power supply to the instrument panel lighting is tight, not damaged, and in good condition. If it is, then we need to confirm a good ground under the dash.

Here is a link that you may find helpful when doing this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

If you look at pic 3, it shows the physical ground location with the cluster removed. (G31)

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Dec 28, 2020 at 10:53 PM