Dashboard panel lights

bscjflynn · 09-16-2007, 06:37 AM

During a stereo upgrade (FJammer to an Pioneer AVIC-D3) I noticed I lost the dashboard panel lights when my headlights are on. Makes it very difficult to drive at night - can't see the speedometer, fuel level, etc.

I removed the AVIC-D3 and the wire harness and reinstalled the FJammer stereo. That returned it completely back to stock. Still no lights.

Here is the kicker - When the aftermarket stereo is in (does not work with the FJammer) I can turn on the headlights without the key in the ignition and the dashboard panel lights do work. As soon as I go to the acc of the key or start the car and the stereo comes on and the dashboard panel lights go off.

Its going into the shop next week but I know its going to be a battle since there is now an aftermarket stereo in there.

Any thoughts would be great.

rons8888 · 09-16-2007, 07:39 AM

Well, I had a similar problem after adding a small audio/radio converter. Turned out, there was some 12v feedback. Adding diodes to prevent feedback solved the problem. I can't say for sure this would fix your issue, but it's only about $2-$5 to give it a try. Would place the diodes in any 12v + line for your add ins.

But the part about restoring everything to 'stock' still having the problem is troubling. Have you checked all the fuses in dash, as well as the radio, acc type fuses in the big fuse box that's in the engine compartment next to the battery? Maybe someone who has had the same problem will have some other idea(s). Hope you get it worked out.

RomaBoy · 09-16-2007, 08:10 AM

Since you're going to bring it to shop anyway why not put the stock unit back in and let them tell you what's up?

bscjflynn · 09-19-2007, 07:08 PM

FYI. The illumination lead from the avic-d3 which I hooked into the scorche harness fried the dimmer dial relay in the dashboard. $115 replacement part. Removed the illumination wire (don't need it anyways) and popped in the new dimmer relay. All is well.