Instrument Panel Bulb

[1genxer]

Hello,

One of the bulbs in my instrument panel (behind the AC controls) burned out. Sucky thing is it happened 100 miles before my warranty ended, and I took it in 500 miles after the warranty expired (oil change time). Of course the Dealership and Mazda won't fix it. Well, thats not true...they'll fix it if I pay them $2 for the bulb, and $248 for the labor. Of course this leads to my question.

What part number is this bulb?

And, can anyone tell me how to pull out the instrument panel so I can replace it? I am pretty handy with this kind of stuff, but I honestly don't know where to start here. If you have a link to some pictures that would be especially helpful. I am hoping to change it this weekend (2 more days). Thanks!!!

Oh yeah, the model is a Mazda 3 2.0L 2004 Sedan.

---Tim

 

[Andrewsmc]

wow 250 for labor, im not sure but i dont think it should take more than 30 mins to change it out.

 

[mazda3zoom]

if its on the ac controls...i think you take off that little carbon fiber strip that goes from the glove box to the radio display. After thats off theres 2 screws that hold the top of the radio in place. Take those out, then the ac stuff all just snaps out of place. sorry no pics

 

[1genxer]

Ok I got everything taken apart (surprizingly easy), but I have a new problem. I cannot pull the A/C controls out after undoing the clips and screws. It seems like the cables connecting the controls to the vents and ac unit are so tight I can't pull out the unit. (bang) This sucks because the screws to take off the plate and replace the bulb are in the back.

Can anyone tell me how to "safely" remove those cables so I can pull the unit out and get this stupid bulb in? They are the kinds you see on a bike for the brakes. Thanks!!!

P.S. I checked the fuses and they are all fine.

 

[MM3Canuck]

Ok I got everything taken apart (surprizingly easy), but I have a new problem. I cannot pull the A/C controls out after undoing the clips and screws. It seems like the cables connecting the controls to the vents and ac unit are so tight I can't pull out the unit. (bang) This sucks because the screws to take off the plate and replace the bulb are in the back.

Can anyone tell me how to "safely" remove those cables so I can pull the unit out and get this stupid bulb in? They are the kinds you see on a bike for the brakes. Thanks!!!

P.S. I checked the fuses and they are all fine.

I have never done this...but maybe call your dealer and ask for parts, they can pull up a diagram on their computer and it shows step by step instructions. If they are kind enough, they will just give you the info. Or ask one of the mechanics...sometimes they are kinda anal about that though.

Good luck