Instrument cluster back lights/dash lights stop working while driving?

1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD
171,000 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
CAM MCCONNELL
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
I have checked all the fuses and so far, they all look good. The dash lights up good upon first starting the vehicle after driving for a bit and it gets warmed up the dash lights and cluster lights go out. The clock stays lit, and radio stays lit but cluster backlight and climate control back lights go dark.
Dec 5, 2022 at 7:30 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
It sounds like the headlight dimmer switch is going out but to be sure can you check for power at the light blue/red wire when the lights on one from the headlight switch? Here is a guide and the instrument cluster lighting wiring diagrams so you can see how it works:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.
Images (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Attached Media
Dec 6, 2022 at 11:59 AM