Ask the Car Guy: Burnt Out Bulb

Judith asks:

Q:

The light in my odometer on my 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier went out and you can’t see the miles. Nothing else on the dash went out. Do you know if this could be a fuse, or what?

A:

Well Judith, this is a well documented and fairly common occurrence with the Chevy Cavalier Instrument cluster's odometer light. Most Cavalier's and even some other Chevrolet models, share the same "classic" bulb issue. I would highly suggest checking the fuse marked "CLSTR" first, before reading below.

The bulb is not available as a factory replacement or OEM (original manufacturer equipment) replacement part. So it seems you are forced to get a "likeness" or comparable replacement bulb (parts store, 5mm, approx 2600 luminosity) and remove the old bulb and install the new "non-factory" replacement yourself (cheaper but risky).

This requires instrument cluster removal, soldering, etc... Are you scared of the "do-it-yourself" option yet?

This requires instrument cluster removal, soldering, etc... Are you scared of the "do-it-yourself" option yet?

You could always just go through a local service facility or Chevrolet dealer. The only thing about the dealership, to be forewarned, is they may suggest replacing the whole cluster, which would be more money for sure. Most people that have endured your same issue have just done it themselves.

So if your a "do-it-yourselfer," give it a go!

But if your like me, I tend to just drive cars, enjoy selling them and try not to make a habit out of fixing them. So I would probably deal with it or price out the repair/replacement at the dealer and make my decision then!

Good luck!

Editor's Note: Blain Boudreau is a 20 year veteran of the auto industry with a vast array of "car guy" knowledge. Have an auto question for Blain? Email Andy.Ambrosius@patch.com.