2004 Cavalier (Base)

I just bought this car on the weekend and noticed that the gear shift at night does not have a back light. Is this normal or is there a blown fuse/bulb?

Are you talking about the "P, R, N, D, 3, 2, 1" on the shifter? If so, the bulb behind them is probably burnt out and replacing it involves removing the entire center console.

How difficult is it and is there any online material that will guide me?

Not too hard, just gotta find all the screws and remove the shift knob. It then should slide right out.

Hmmm, well maybe I'll give it try this weekend.

There is a back light on all models right?

At least on the 00+ I can guarantee there is. 99 and lower there is not. Its up in the gauge cluster for the pre-00 cars.