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Toyota Camry 1997-2001: How to Replace Instrument Panel Cluster Bulbs

Has your instrument panel cluster suddenly gone dark? This article will shed some light on how to replace those worn out instrument panel bulbs.

By Brett Foote - July 22, 2015

This article applies to the 4th Generation Toyota Camry (1997-2001).

Instrument cluster light bulbs, as with any other light bulb, will eventually burn out for good. Unlike many other types of bulbs, however, these are not so easy to reach because some of the dash trim must be removed. Overall, this DIY job isn't a particularly difficult one, nor is it time consuming. So whether you want to replace some burnt out instrument cluster bulbs or install some longer-lasting and brighter LED lights, keep reading for the proper way to get it done.

Materials Needed

  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Replacement instrument cluster bulbs

Step 1 – Remove the instrument cluster trim piece

  • Disconnect the battery's negative terminal (black lead).
  • Depress the lever on the side of the steering wheel, and tilt it all the way down.
  • Use a small Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the instrument cluster trim piece in place. These screws are located on the underside of the dashboard, just above the instrument cluster.
  • Remove the trim piece by first pulling the bottom end free. Then, work your way up to the top until it is completely detached from the dashboard.
Figure 1. Remove the instrument cluster trim piece.

Step 2 – Remove the instrument cluster

  • Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws securing the instrument cluster to the dash.
  • Lift the instrument cluster from its bottom end to remove it. Do not yank it out as there are three electrical connectors attached.
  • There is a light blue connector on the left side of the cluster, a white connector on the center, and a brown connector on the right. Unplug each connector by pushing down on its tab and gently pulling it out.
  • Then carefully slide the instrument cluster out from the dash.

Figure 2. Lift the instrument cluster up from the bottom and unplug the connectors.

Step 3 – Replace the instrument cluster bulbs

  • Flip the instrument cluster over and determine which bulbs you wish to replace. There are five big sockets housing the bulbs that illuminate the cluster and 24 small sockets for the various indicator light bulbs.
  • To remove the socket, twist it counterclockwise and pull it out. You can remove the bulb from its socket in the same fashion.
  • Insert the new bulb into the socket, and twist it clockwise to lock it in place. Do the same when re-installing the socket to the instrument cluster.
  • Repeat the process for any bulbs that you need to replace.
Figure 3. Twist the socket counterclockwise to remove it.

Pro Tips

  • Large 194 bulbs (five total) are used to illuminate the instrument cluster when the headlights are on.
  • All indicator lights on the instrument cluster use smaller 74 bulbs (24 total).

Step 4 – Re-install the instrument cluster

  • Plug in the three electrical connectors to the back of the instrument cluster.
  • Position the instrument cluster in the dash, and secure it with the four Phillips screws.
  • Push the instrument cluster trim piece back into the dash. You'll know it's secure when you hear it snap into place.
  • Tilt the steering wheel back up to your desired height.
  • Reconnect the battery and test the new instrument cluster lights.

Featured Video: Toyota Camry Instrument Panel Bulb Replacement

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