2000 Alero Dashboard/Radio Display Light Problem

[michael lee]

During the daytime the radio display on my daughter's 2000 Alero shows up just fine. However, at night when the auto headlights turn on, the radio display and dashboard light goes out so you can't see the speedometer. This will also happen if the lights are turned on manually during the day. Any ideas on what might be the problem? Thanks

[BNaylor]

First make sure the dimmer control is properly adjusted (up). Located at the left hand side of the dashboard. If it is then it sounds like you have a bad dimmer control or it is missing the 12 volt input. During the daytime the auto headlight via the sensor bypasses the dimmer control so you get full brightness on the radio. Also, the climate control illumination is varied by use of the dimmer control not just the radio and instrument panel.

Welcome to AF.

[michael lee]

Thank you for the reply. We have moved the dimmer control all the way up and still no display. When the control is pushed up until it clicks, it will still turn the dome light on without opening the door. Would that indicate the control is getting the 12v power and the dimmer function of the control has a problem? Thanks

[BNaylor]

Chances are it is getting 12 volts and it is the dimmer but it is better to troubleshoot it. All you'll need is a multimeter or test light. The switch is a two part as for dimming and turning the interior lights on. To check the output it will be a varying voltage from 0 - 12 volts. Good luck.