How to Replace a Ford Explorer Instrument Panel Light

by Daniel Valladares

The instrument panel on your Ford Explorer contains six lights. Four of the lights illuminate specific gauges and the other two lights serve as warning indicators when there is a problem with your vehicle. The Explorer's instrument panel lights use 194LL bulbs, which can be bought at most automotive parts shops. In order to replace the bulbs, the instrument panel needs to be removed from the Explorer. This means removing the dashboard as well.

Step 1

Turn the Explorer's engine off and open the hood. Remove the negative black terminal from the battery with a socket wrench.

Step 2

Remove the two cross-head screws from above the HVAC unit with a Phillips head screwdriver.

Step 3

Remove the three bolts just above the instrument panel using a socket wrench.

Step 4

Remove the four cross-screws just under the steering wheel using a socket wrench. One is above each pedal. Pull the kick panel out of the Explorer and remove the two cross-screws below the steering wheel with a Phillips head screwdriver.

Step 5

Pull down the steel plate below the steering wheel and remove the two bolts holding the trim around the steering wheel with a Phillips head screwdriver.

Step 6

Pull the center console dashboard trim off and unplug the radio, the HVAC unit and the cigarette lighter. At this point you can pry off the dash trim around the instrument panel.

Step 7

Pull the instrument panel dash trim off the Explorer. Disconnect the plug behind the gear shifter.

Step 8

Pull the left side of the panel out and disconnect the two plugs behind it before removing it from the Explorer.

Step 9

Remove the four cross-screws holding the Explorer's instrument panel in place. Pull the instrument panel out of the Explorer. Make sure to disconnect the three plugs on the underside of the instrument panel.