How do you fix an instrument cluster that has no lights on a 1995 Jetta?

Answer 1

Check for a blown fuse. If fuse is not blown, simply turn you instrument lights back on. You will find a rheostat that adjusts the brightness of the instrument lights. If turned to far they will go off. Don't know the location, look in your owner's manual. Don't have an owner's manual, get one. This problem is actually one caused by a defective part. The dealres are supposed to replace the clusters holding the light bulbls for free. Of course, being dealers, they'll try to charge for it unless you insist. I think this is specific to 1995 models. Unless they replace the clusters, your lights will keep going out because they come unscrewed. Often it is a fouled or dirty dimmer switch which can cause this particular problem. Before major overhauls or exploratory dismantling, try a bit of electronic contact cleaner. If you have a roller type dimmer, a spray cannister of contact spray may just do the trick. A short burst of the solution and some movement of the dimmer may clear it up. It did on mine and not I've got the full compliment of interior illumination. The spray is available at auto parts stores and electrical supply houses. I paid 5 US for a can that will likely last ages. Works great on dusty radio knobs, etc.