2000 Chrysler Neon LE, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Cluster Illumination Problem

NOTE: After making any repairs, perform BODY VERIFICATION TEST  under VERIFICATION TESTS. Unless instructed otherwise in test step, reconnect any disconnected connectors.
  1. Turn parking lights on. Observe panel light operation while turning panel dimmer switch from high to low. If cluster lights remain brightly illuminated, go to next step. If cluster lights do not illuminate, go to step  7. If cluster lights dim properly, test is complete.
  2. Turn panel dimmer switch to lowest position. Ensure ignition is off. Connect scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC). DLC is located on bottom of instrument panel, to left of brake pedal. See Figure. Using scan tool, select BODY, MECHANICAL INSTRUMENT CLUSTER, SENSORS and PANEL LIGHTS. Read PANEL LIGHT VOLTAGE value. If voltage is more than 2.5 volts, go to next step. If voltage is 2.5 volts or less, go to step  5.
  3. Disconnect instrument cluster and multifunction switch connectors. Instrument cluster connector is a 26-pin Black connector, located behind left upper instrument panel. Multifunction switch connector is located under upper steering column shroud. Go to next step.
  4. Using an ohmmeter, check resistance between ground and instrument cluster connector terminal No. 6, panel lights dimmer signal circuit (Red wire). If resistance is less than 1000 ohms, repair Red wire for short to ground. If resistance is 1000 ohms or more, replace instrument cluster. See ANALOG INSTRUMENT PANELS - NEON article.
  5. Disconnect instrument cluster and multifunction switch connectors. Instrument cluster connector is a 26-pin Black connector, located behind left upper instrument panel. Multifunction switch connector is located under upper steering column shroud. Go to next step.
  6. Using an ohmmeter, check resistance between ground and instrument cluster connector terminal No. 6, panel lights dimmer signal circuit (Red wire). If resistance is less than 1000 ohms, repair Red wire for short to ground. If resistance is 1000 ohms or more, replace multifunction switch.
  7. Connect scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC). DLC is located on bottom of instrument panel, to left of brake pedal. See Figure. Using scan tool, read ELECTRO/MECH CLUSTER DTCs. If scan tool displays PANEL DIMMER OPEN, perform PANEL DIMMER OPEN  test. If scan tool does not display PANEL DIMMER OPEN, go to next step.
  8. Remove instrument cluster. See ANALOG INSTRUMENT PANELS - NEON article. Remove and check instrument cluster bulbs. Replace bulbs as necessary. If bulbs are okay, replace instrument cluster.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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