1995 S320 Lwb with lighting problems - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

jplatt32 · #1 09-19-2004, 11:30 PM

undefinedI own a 1995 S320 lwb I recently disconnected the battery breifly to clean the post, when reconnected the battery i noticed that my instrument panel lights do not work anymore . The gages work normaly and my ash tray light works fine "BUT" my dash lights are totally dead including the gear shift lights . What could be the problem?

I have check the fuses and them all "seam" to be fine..

Gilly · #2 09-20-2004, 12:27 AM

I can't remember if a 140 has the 2 pushbuttons to dim the dash lights or the rotary knob, but is it possibly the problem (dash light dimmer turned down?)
Gilly

jplatt32 · #3 09-20-2004, 12:50 AM

What rotary knob ? I looked?

Gilly · #4 09-20-2004, 01:00 AM

Well, like I said I'm not sure on a 140 how you dim the dash lights, but I do KNOW they are adjustable, so maybe yours are turned all the way down by accident. Some MB's of that era use 2 buttons, usually a plus on one and minus on the other (+/-) which you push the plus for brighter and minus for dimmer. But I'm more inclined to think it uses a rotary button. Usually it's the same or similar button like you use to reset the trip meter. Just try turning the knob you push to reset the trip meter, or if there is more than one of these sticking thru the instrument cluster or bordering the cluster try rotating it, clockwise is usually brighter, counterclockwise is dimmer, just like many other cars.
Gilly
PS if I am correct you'll even see "fluting" on the edge of the knob which makes it easier to grab on to to turn it.

jplatt32 · #5 09-20-2004, 09:07 AM

Thank you that did the trick ! i feel so stupid now.....

Gilly · #6 09-20-2004, 05:59 PM

Don't feel bad, you're not the first one to have that happen here on the forums!
Gilly