Radio Backlight Lamp Replacement '97-'03

[BNaylor]

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

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

Click here

[davehecky]

I bought my bulb from ebay, user (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.

[gpgtowner]

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

[davehecky]

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

[gpgtowner]

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.

[davehecky]

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

[winty03]

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.

[davehecky]

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

[tblake]

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

[iceman2]

Originally Posted by davehecky

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.

[lance_kidd]

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.