A/C Control Unit backlights

[IronBandit]

My 08 1500 apparently had the light bulbs from the a/c control unit go out recently. It appears only a couple went out, as some of it is still illuminated. I took the truck to the dealer, and they tried telling me the only solution was to replace the whole ac control piece for $500. Yeah, that'll happen.

I've attached a picture of the dash lit up to show where its out. The driver side seat warmer switch light also went out. Has anyone had this issue before, and where could I find the correct size/type bulbs for replacement? Thank you all.

 

[krakaman24]

500 bones?! They really are out of their minds. There are a few write ups around here from people that have switched out these bulbs for different colors. I'm sure one of them will chime in.

 

[HemiBabe]

Here's a write up that may help

http://www.ramforum.com/f76/led_dash_conversion-1495/

 

[ADUBIS]

I'm not defending the dealership but I was a service writer for 2 car dealers and 2 Harley dealers. I always looked for the best solution for both the dealership and the customer. Having said that, the dealer has to determine the best way to approach the repair so that they make money and don't have a comeback on their hands. There is a risk of damage to the unit trying to fix it along with a chance of failure in the unit at any time after the repair, therefore the dealership could be expected to replace the unit at no charge to the customer. It may be less costly to the customer just to replace the unit, rather than racking up labor time to replace bulbs. Another factor is that there may be nothing in the factory service manual that defines the steps to replace the bulbs on the unit, therefore the dealer will not take it apart. Bottom line is dealers are more expensive for sure, but the internet is a powerful tool for customers to voice their opinions when they think they have been screwed, that's something the dealer wants to avoid. I cant say for all dealerships, but at most, anyone who is caught intentionally ripping off a customer wont be employed there for long.

As far as staying out of the dealership goes, I think I would first make sure a used unit is available at my local salvage yard, then take a crack at replacing the bulbs. If something goes wrong, just swap it out with a used one.

 

[IronBandit]

Thank you all for the replies.

Looked at the write up HemiBabe posted, looks like the link posted in there carries the bulbs I'm after.

ADUBIS, I definitely see your point, and I'm definitely one of those guys who doesn't mind paying for things to be done right on my truck, however, I can't see the point in replacing an otherwise working panel (that still responds to manual adjustment) because two of three socket bulbs burned out, and Chrysler has no entry in their service manual on how to twist, extract, and replace them.

 

[ADUBIS]

I hear ya. Now that you know how to fix it, just for gits and shiggles, call a couple other dealers and find out how they would address the issue. Im curious to know what they tell ya.