Radio Backlight Lamp Replacement '97-'03

There is a mini-lamp for the radio time display which burns out. The dash panel and radio have to be removed to replace it. The part # is 16208443 available at the dealer. Cost approximately $8.00. Substitute bulbs are available at Radio Shack and mentioned in the R&R procedure below.

Click here (http://users.adelphia.net/~bpaskevich/index_files/Radio_Lamp_repair.htm)

And here is a basic procedure to get the radio out:

Click here (http://www.carstereohelp.com/stereoremovalPontiacGrandPrixSt2.htm)

I bought my bulb from ebay, user (ann_abelle123 (http://myworld.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ann_abelle123/)) which is made by GM. It worked perfect and shipped out super fast. It only took a couple of minutes to install. The bulb was around $20 bucks.

The instructions state that the bulb has to be soldered in place. Is that the only way to install a new bulb?

Most of them do not have to be soldiered. Like the grand prixs all the way up to year 04. Dave

Thanks Dave,

And so the obvious follow up question is how are they installed. I just want to know before I take my dash all apart. I really appreciate the advice and the pictures. They have helped immensely.

They just twist right in. I bought mine from (ann_abelle123) on ebay. Just search the items shes selling. They are brand new from the dealer AC Delco. Later

Ya I know they twist in using the brown plastic socket. I tried a new gm bulb and then also pulled the blub out and used a replacement suggested in the how to and solder it in and still no light. I am going to try to hook it up directly to the 12 volt battery and see if the bulbs are good.

I bought mine and it came with the plastic casing around the bulb. No soldering

Anyone know why this tech article doesn't work anymore?

I bought mine and it came with the plastic casing around the bulb. No soldering


There is an excellent video on youtube that shows the procedure:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWzXaPL8MgQ

Be very careful with the long pins that go back into the orange recetacles.

I am very happy to hear about this bulb. I this thread is kind of old, but my radio at first in my 01 Grand Prix stopped turning on and off easily. I guess it's the little contact or rubber piece under the on/off button that's messed up. Can that be fixed?

Anyway, I called the junk yard and they have one that looks good and works, but he said the display doesn't work. I'm glad to know if I have to, I can get it and probably fix the light.