I have a 1997 Jaguar XK8. The headlamps work, but the instrument panel bulb that lights when the headlamps are on does not. Even the high beam instrument panel bulb works as do all the other instrument panel bulbs.

I have already replaced the bulb. I even switched two bulb holders to check for a connection problem on the instrument panel bulb. The headlamp bulb still did not work. So, the problem is not the bulb or any problem on the instrument panel.

I am considering replacing the turn signal/headlamp switch. Is the instrument panel headlamp bulb wired separately from the headlamps at the switch? Any suggestions?

Thanks

 

The headlamp bulb is not accessible from the rear of the instrument cluster. The fact that you switched bulb holders tells me that you are changing the wrong bulb.

You need to remove the entire printed circuit board from the instrument cluster housing to get to this bulb. The required bulb is a tiny 'E73' wedge type bulb that plugs into a socket that is soldered on the front of the circuit board.

 

Is the circuit board accessible?

 

Yes. You first need to remove the back panel of the gauge cluster.

You then need to gently unplug the four white connectors from the top of the gauge cluster. The white plugs pull straight out. If there is enough clearance, you can lightly grip them with pliers and pull straight out, otherwise gently pry the white part a bit from each side with a small screwdriver till each connector is free. Do not damage or pry near the ribbon cable side of the connectors.

The circuit board can then be tilted out from the top for access, while leaving the red LCD display connector in place at the bottom.

 

perfect timing on this thread as mine went out the other day!

 

Mine too!

Glad i found this particular post as I figured it wouldn't be accessible from the rear of the cluster.
I'll tread carefully removing the connectors.

 

C, you sure you want to fix it?

I forgot why mine doesn't work, it failed yrs ago, but it turns out to be a HUGE improvement IMO.

That light isn't on the dimmer circuit, would bug the hell out of me on unlit backroads at night.

I guess the fact my headlights are on 100% of the time obviates any need for a stupid status bulb anyway. (My car is titanium grey - aka same friggin color of asphalt. Too many idiots around here to drive in camouflage mode ;-).

Think on it mate,

John

 

You do have a point John and yes it nice not to have too much coming at you off the panel during a night drive..

I do actually keep my lights set on Auto mode in any case and let the car sensor determine when they should come on.

I will think on it but knowing where these damn things live is a nice to have.
For example, I definitely want the indicator signals working on the cluster (might even be an MOT fail) and should bulbs ever go for that, I'd know where to go looking to replace.

Happy driving all!

John

 

Sounds good !