Instrument Panel Lights

[bsummers12]

I noticed the other evening when adjusting the dimmer switch for the instrument lights that it very hot just above the switch. Actually to hot to place a finger on for more than 2-3 seconds.

Does this mean the switch may have faulty wiring or may burn out? My concern is that it may overheat to the point of causing a vehicle fire.

Guess I should add this is a 99 Silverado.

Thanks.

[chuck16]

If your concerned about it try taking the switch out and cleaning it and seeing if there is any discolouring or melted look in the switch. If it looks like it's melted or you think it's going to be a problem, replace it! I have a 99 as well and it get's warm but, certainly not to a point where I can't touch it...

Also check for loose wires perhaps it's not firmly plugged in...

[waitingforcolumbus]

I may be completely wrong... but the way I remember it the switch dims the lights by turning the excess voltage to heat.
Try driving with the lights turned to bright and then low and compare. My dad always drove with his dimmed and the switch eventually failed.

[weo38]

I took a driver safety course and the instructor said that by driving with your panel lights low you can see the road better. It makes sense because you won't have the bright light impairing your night vision. Anyway I always have them dimmed but haven't noticed the heat, I will have to check it out.

[Silverado6x6]

I changed all the bulbs to green LEDs, they however can only be partially dimmed and then go out completely but the upside is they are cooler, last longer and easier on my eyes, the cluster itself was an 04 Escalade that I swapped into my 02 Silverado 3500 with 8.1, absolutely worked in all repects and looks a lot better.