Instrument Panel Dimmer Switch

What is an Instrument Panel Dimmer Switch?

The instrument panel in your vehicle, also known as the instrument cluster or gauge cluster, is the informational panel near your steering column that allows you to monitor your car's systems, such as checking your speed, fuel level, or tire pressure. This is also where your Check Engine light and other warning lights will indicate a problem with your vehicle. The instrument panel has to be well-lit, especially at night, for you to clearly see the important information displayed across the different gauges and instruments. The instrument panel dimmer switch allows you to control the brightness of your gauge cluster and dash lighting. The ability to dim, brighten, and adjust the lights on your dashboard to your preference is important to your driving comfort and safety, and the panel dimmer switch is usually located on the dash or the steering column. On some vehicles, this switch can also turn on your interior lights if it is turned to the highest setting. If you notice your instrument panel lights are dimmer than usual, only work in some switch positions, aren't coming on, or can't be adjusted at all, or if your interior lights are turning on and off randomly, you may have a problem with your instrument cluster dimmer switch. Before replacing the switch, check the fuse for damage, and ensure the wire connections to the back of the dash are secure. If it's time to replace your instrument panel dimmer switch, O'Reilly Auto Parts carries dimmer switches and combination switches for your vehicle to help you make a complete repair.