06 Instrument panel dimmer switch

How do you remove the instrument dash board dimmer switch on a 2006 Tacoma. Once I remove it, how do I check to see if it is working properly with a tester. I've already checked all the fuses and all look ok.

 

What is wrong with your instrument cluster? Doesn't light up? No gauges working? Won't dim / brighten? Here is a troubleshooting guide.


If you just want to test the "Light Control Rheostat" (dimmer switch) then read this guide. You will need a multi meter to test the voltage.

 

The tach, speedometer, temp, oil, clock, radio all work fine. What is happening is the illumination bulbs aren't working (temp control dials, radio controls). All the small bulbs on the center console are out. Checked all the fuses (good), dimmer switch works fine on the speedometer and stuff, just not the center console. Hope my explanation isn't too confusing. Looking at the wiring diagram, it seems that the dash dimmer switch has two different functions. One for the speedometer area and one for the center dash area. How do I remove the dimmer switch to test it without scratching my dash up. HELP ME PLEEEZE!

 

Here is the factory service manual.

You can read how to take apart almost everything.

 

Thanks "db67fm"...this will help out a heap and I've got the answer to my question.

 

10 year thread revival!!!!Custom Tacos links aren't working. Anyone have anymore information on this? Speedo and Tach lights aren't working and I need to test the dimmer. Thanks!

 

Rheostat

 

I've isolated my problem to the dimmer, as when it's disconnected from the circuit, all instrument lights work. Now...just gotta figure out which parts of the internals need replacing