For the HVAC you only have to remove the AC button, 4 lever covers, and the face plate. Then you can use a small screwdriver to press the tab on the translucent plastic to remove it and give you access to the bulb. It's designed to come out the front. The way you did it is way more extreme and unnecessary. To pop off the cover you can either pop the corner of the dash off as it's held in by clips and push from behind or you can remove the radio cover and reach behind. For the cluster you do not have to remove the steering column or the trim around it. All you have to do is remove the screw that holds the black plastic cover, then remove the 4 screws that hold the cluster in place. Turn it sideways and you can either reach all 4 lights like that or you can reach the plugs to remove the cluster. Takes a little wiggling to get out but easy enough to do.
Excellent advice, thank you. What year is your RAV4? I recently found out the dashboard trim is different on the earlier 1996 and 1997 model years (my RAV4), and the later 1998 and up model the black dash trim just comes out. My instrument cluster is not flat at the bottom, and dips down about 3 more inches on each side of the steering column, making it impossible to remove. I've pulled really hard on it, with no luck.
This guy really dismantled his entire dashboard four times just to add the brief detail of showing off different color options at the end of the video. This is the quality content we come to youtube for.
@@slickstretch6391 Well.. a smart person would compare the colors with the car disassembled, but I decided to do it the hard way! Actually there's a little bit more to the story. Setting up the camera inside the car is extremely difficult, and taking the dash apart was a little tricky too. I took the dash apart 3 times as practice runs before recording the video. That way I knew the best steps, in the exact order they need to be done, so I could minimize the amount of footage I have with me just fumbling around and doing stuff wrong.
Thanks to everyone's input, I discovered DROPPING THE STEERING COLUMN IS NOT NEEDED on the 1998 and newer RAV4. If you have a 1996 or 1997, you still have to do it. Toyota changed the instrument cluster trim for the later models.
@@darktar2175 On the 1997 and older RAV4, the instrument cluster trim dips down below the steering column trim and it's impossible to remove it unless you get the steering column out of the way. In 1998 and newer, that trim piece is flat across the bottom and comes out without any extra work.
Maybe the US models are different, but on my Australian 1994 RAV4, I can drop the steering column adjustment to the lowest setting and manoeuvre the instrument cluster surround off that way… no need to touch the steering column bolts.
@@michaelnelson912 My Swiss '94 was the same, didn't have to touch the steering column, although you really have to bend the black part to get it in/out. Said a little prayer and it worked.
Bro, you done it again! You just keep help me out man. I've been wanting to get to the climate control since the handle inside broke and won't open any of the vents. Its been stuck on Defrost. Many thanks
id take only white ones. keep up the videos. i really like them, it gives me great tutorials to fix my 1997 Rav4. Next step on mine is the clear headlights from 1999 Rav4, just to give it a little cleaner look and a little facelift
I did my 1990 Corolla by pulling the bulb in the front using a long flier wrapped with a rubber to have a better grip and less tendency crushing the halogen glass. The rpm and odometer cover were removable.
Note to those that have a 2000, US, and 4-door. You don't have as many steps as Paul but it's essentially the same. You still have to drop the steering, pull the dash, etc. BE CAREFUL WITH THE DASH your wire harness is probably thick and old so don't pull to hard and to the right. You're going to flip I upside-down instead. AC side is the same as Paul's Anyways, Red is definitely dimmer than Paul's example but works great too. Thanks Paul, my Rav4 now has a little more character.
I thought about that, but changing light bulbs is much easier. A multi-color setup would require some re-wiring and mounting a switch or remote somewhere. I think more people will want to just change the light bulbs.
Paul how long did this take? I have the Purple Storm Metallic exterior and interior colouring, and I think purple instrument panels would be so sweet, especially to match with that stereo you have, I have the same one which is set to purple all the time to match. This would be really really cool but I feel like a lot of work, what was your timeline of this?
Hey , question about replacing dash lights with leds. Switched all out but some weird stuff happening. Right turn signal light stopped lightning up but it does work, high beam indicator does not work after switching to LED, brake light indicator stays on ever so slightly all the time. OMG, any help totally appreciated, thanks 97 2dr 4wd 5speed
I might do this on my 96 rav4, but I think I have to replace something on my cluster. My speedometer doesn't show my proper speed and odometer is broken, I pushed in the odometer button and it just jammed up one time.
hey Paul, did you change your oil pump gasket or is it still in tact? i think that is the main reason why my rav4 is still leaking oil. If not i hope you will educate us on that. good luck!
I replaced the oil pump gasket and seal when I replaced the cylinder head. Check out the cylinder head video here: ua-cam.com/video/Ksv98JvBqXs/v-deo.html or the timing belt video here: ua-cam.com/video/qabgg9DzY9w/v-deo.html
Thank you for this brilliant video. I can actually see my gauges at night now w/ my new "Ice Blue" LEDs, same brand you bought. Hey, can you tell me if I did something wrong? My "LOW FUEL" idiot light is on now when key is in "Start" position. I have 1/4-tank. Before changing out the incandescent bulbs, Low Fuel light only came on when tank was near "E" (Empty). Did I change out the wrong bulb or something? 1998 Manual Transmission RAV4 4-door 3S-FE engine Hard-Top. THANK YOU!
friend I have a problem with the Toyota rav4 from the same year that lowers me and my revs rise when he drove it for 10 minutes, you can help me with that.
The stock dashboard looks good and works perfectly. There is no logical reason to replace it. A digital dash might look cooler but it won't match the car, and aftermarket wiring and components are usually less reliable than original. I think installing a digital dash would make the car worse.
I was thinking about doing this, but mine doesn't have a dimmer I think. Looks like I'll stick with incandescent to avoid burning my eyeballs at night. Also, wondering if you've heard of the seatbelt warning light logic being reversed. My light turns on when the seat belt is buckled, but is off when unbuckled.
What happens when you unplug the seatbelt light connector under the seat? On my car (not broken) the light stays on when it's unplugged. If I connect both terminals on the wires coming out of the floor, with a jumper wire, the light turns off. Try that test. If you get ON with the wires disconnected, and OFF with the wires connected, then your problem is in the seat belt latch.
@@LabCoatPaul with the seatbelt sensor disconnected, the light stays off. I just shorted the connector, and it made the light turn on. I got new buckles from toyota parts deal, so I'm inclined to think that they're not the cause of this. In fact, the old buckle wasn't connected either, and the light was off when I got the rav
@@handsarecats The easy option of course is just leave it unplugged. You might have a loose connection at the instrument cluster connector that has the seat belt warning wire, or maybe the light bulb has a bad connection. It could be pulling current through the light bulb. Pull the instrument cluster out, and unplug all 3 connectors and plug them back in to see if that helps. That's about as much electrical diagnosis as I can do without having the car and a multimeter.
Do i need to remove the steering column to remove the instrument cluster??? I need to replace the cluster as the digital odometer display is partially faded out
In 1996 and 1997, yes the steering column prevents removing the instrument cluster trim. In 1998 and newer, the trim was re-designed and you don’t need to drop the steering column.
If your lucky and have a tilt steering wheel you can just take the dash cluster cover off and take the cluster out. Or if your like me and don't have a tilt steering wheel, you can bend the crap out of the cover and take it out like i did.
My 1996 JDM RAV4 doesn't have the dash lights dimmer, it's blanked out! I see that even the original brochures for that year has the light dimmer blanked out. Mind boggling. How would I find the info to figure out how to install the dimmer? Would the steering column need to be removed for that too?
1996 and 1997 RAV4 dashboard trim is shaped so it doesn't come out unless you drop the steering column. 1998 - 2000 is a different shape and doesn't require moving the steering column. If you're lucky, your car will have wiring for the dash lights dimmer, so you can just plug one in.
Based on comments from a few other people, The dashboard may be easier to remove on 1998 and newer models. Toyota changed the steering wheel and steering column a bit and you don't need to drop the column like I did. If you can get the black trim out from around the gauges, you don't need to drop the steering column.
You can pull the dash trim forward a few inches, and pull the bezel off the climate control. Be careful not to pull too hard so you don't break the plastic.
I know this was made a few years ago and I have a '99 Toyota Rav 4, 2-door. The lights are very dim and I would ❤ to have them replaced, but frankly, as a senior, I have no idea as to how to do it, even watching the video, too complicated. I know of no one who is even willing to bother, let alone if those bulbs would fit my particular year. Any suggestions? Thanks
In 1998, Toyota re-designed the dashboard and made it easier to work on. You don't need to drop the steering column to remove the trim around the gauges in your car. It takes the same bulbs as in the video. Any mechanic should be able to do it for you.
Can anyone let me know if the turn-signal dash lights are effected with rapid flashing similar to if you change the tail lights with LED bulbs without changing the flasher relay?
There's a much easier way to do this: Instrument Cluster: Remove (1) philips head screw from cluster bezel(center top of bezel) and gently work the bezel free and out. Undo (4) screws holding instrument cluster (use magnetic driver or be careful not to drop them down into the dash) Angle the LH side of the cluster out and unclip the connector so you can access the backside of the cluster. Identify the (4) bulbs; remove and replace the bulbs. Reverse to reassemble. No need to drop the steering column. The Bezel is a tight fit, so be patient with it. You can also replace the Climate control bulb without removing the dash facia; Remove the radio instead; much easier Pop the three switches out; Pull the climate control out slightly Use fine pair of tweezers/needle nose pliers to gently pull the bulb out; Replace and restore. This method requires a little more dexterity and physical flexibility, that's all. Tip: Have a couple of replacement bulb sockets on hand: some bulbs may have fused themselves into the socket..
@@LabCoatPaul I have a 1997 RAV4 XA11. I replaced all the instrument cluster illumination bulbs just by removing the bezel and the four screws. I also replaced the climate control illumination bulb without removing the entire dash bezel; I removed the stereo and accessed the control unit and the bulb from underneath. It takes a little more dexterity and careful use of needle nose pliers, but it was still easier than removing the dash bezel.
I did the process as you laid out and replace the bulds with the LED bulds you listed. However I ran into a problem which I hope you or someone can help me with. After changing bulds the headlight indicator on the dashboard does not come on. Yet when I switch on the highbeam. The highbeam light indicator does turn on the dashboard. The actual headlights does turn on and off.
@@LabCoatPaul the rear door LED installation went flawless. The front dome light not so much. The bulb broke off in the socket. Any suggestions on how to get it out?
@@jasontorres4668 Yes, remove the light assembly from the car. It should just be a couple screws. With it out of the car, it should be much easier to grab what's left of the bulb with some needle nose pliers.
@@LabCoatPaul Thanks Paul. I’ll do that. Does the bulb pull straight out? I have a 99 with the sunroof. It calls for the. DE3175 in the front which is not the correct bulb. Is it a BA9s? Also, thanks for all the content, my mom passed and left me the RAV4, when she had it I thought it was the biggest POS but after clean it up it’s in immaculate condition and is going to be a fun little project car.
@@jasontorres4668 Yes, the front is BA9S. This video is about the dome lights: ua-cam.com/video/IHYhd5vFEI4/v-deo.html The front dome lights go 1/4 turn counter clockwise to be removed. www.superbrightleds.com/moreinfo/miniature-and-subminiature-bulbs/ba9s-led-bulb-5-smd-led-tower-ba9s-retrofit-car/2077/4721/
@@LabCoatPaul You're crazy. That seems a lot of work. Following your videos since your scooter videos. Really like how thorough you explain the steps. Keep on the good work.
Removing the instrument cluster like in this video gets you 90% of the way there. You can replace the entire set of gauges, or get another one from the junkyard and swap the speedometer only, even though it would be more work.
@@victorbaird8220 Update: It might be possible on 1998 and newer RAV4, but on the 1997 and older, the column has to go down. If you can get the black plastic trim out from around the gauges, then you can skip the steering column stuff.
If the engine is shaking on idle, you may have a misfire. Replace your spark plugs, wires, distributor cap, and rotor. Also check your air filter. ua-cam.com/video/ajq626xx6zM/v-deo.html If your engine is dying or having trouble finding a smooth idle, you may need to clean the idle air control valve and throttle body. ua-cam.com/video/O3yb5RIlqPM/v-deo.html If the idle is too high, you may have a vacuum leak. The hoses on the RAV4 are old, and some of them are cracked. You can spray carburetor cleaner at the hoses while the engine is running. If the RPM's go up, you've found a leak.
My light above the radio for the ac is burnt out but also wasnt the same size it was smaller and the left side of my dash is lowkey dim not all of it just some of it isnt hit by light so it looks cringe. Pls help
All the illumination bulbs in the gauges should be the same size. If you're using LED's turn on the lights before installing the dash back in the car. If one of the LED's doesn't work, flip it around 180 degrees and try again. The A/C button uses a smaller light bulb. I haven't researched that one so I don't know what bulb that is.
HOLA PAUL TENGO UN TOYOTA RAV 4 1997,TENGO UN PROBLEMA CON EL PANEL,NO PRENDEN LOS 4 BULBOS QUE ILUMINAN EL PANEL,QUE PODRA SER???ME PUEDES AYUDAR GRACIAS!!!👍👍👍ESPERO TU MSG,GRACIAS SALUDOS DESDE CHICAGO IL!!!🤗AH LOS FOCOS YA LOS CAMBIE!!!!!GRACIAS POR TU AYUDA!!!!👍👍👍
If your dashboard lights don't work, start by making sure the dimmer is set to the brightest mode. Then check your fuses. If you installed LED, try changing polarity on the bulbs by unplugging them and turning them 180 degrees.
@@LabCoatPaul PAUL YA CHEQUE LA POLARIDAD DE LAS LUCES,EL START QUE ESTE ABIERTO,EL REGULADOR DE BRILLO,ESTO ESTA BIEN,ME FALTARIA EL FUSIBLE DONDE ENCUENTRO EL FUSIBLE QUE CONTROLA ESTAS LUCES???ME PUEDES INDICAR GRACIAS!!👍👍👍PAUL!!!!!LAS LUCES DE LAS DIFERENTES FUNCIONES SI TRABAJAS LAD QUE NO PRENDEN SON LAS 4 LUCES QUE ALUMBRAN TODO EL PANEL O TABLERO!!!GRACIAS!!!👍👍👍
Lütfen yardım istiyorum HELP HELP 1998 5kapı rav4 için iki adet ön helozen yay ve sağ kapı cam motoru ve kiriko fitil bulamıyorum hangi siteden ve şipariş kodları lütfen parasını sizede yollaya bilirimm lütfen help
Not sure what i did wrong, got a 99 4 door rav and saw another vid where the dude didnt have to take the whole steering column off. So i tried replacing the old bulbs with LEDS, now none of them would turn on. Tried putting the old ones that i know work and still nothing. Anyone know what i did wrong and how to fix it. Having the gauges at night would really be helpful. haha
In 1995-1997 RAV4, you have to move the steering column to remove the dashboard trim. In 1998-2000, you don't need to. It sounds like you might have blown the instrument panel fuse.
@@LabCoatPaul thank you and ill reply again once ive done that. Honestly, seeing you work on your rav has really pushed me to start working on mine as well. Just replaced the brake master cylinder and ordered new lift kits wheels and tires as well. Hopefully mine would be somewhere close to yours
now, I remove the dashboard indiscriminately in 5 minutes. you just need to make a little effort to the black mask of the devices) in general, at this moment Toyota was very surprised, on other cars the dashboard is removed much easier
For the HVAC you only have to remove the AC button, 4 lever covers, and the face plate. Then you can use a small screwdriver to press the tab on the translucent plastic to remove it and give you access to the bulb. It's designed to come out the front. The way you did it is way more extreme and unnecessary. To pop off the cover you can either pop the corner of the dash off as it's held in by clips and push from behind or you can remove the radio cover and reach behind.
For the cluster you do not have to remove the steering column or the trim around it. All you have to do is remove the screw that holds the black plastic cover, then remove the 4 screws that hold the cluster in place. Turn it sideways and you can either reach all 4 lights like that or you can reach the plugs to remove the cluster. Takes a little wiggling to get out but easy enough to do.
Excellent advice, thank you. What year is your RAV4? I recently found out the dashboard trim is different on the earlier 1996 and 1997 model years (my RAV4), and the later 1998 and up model the black dash trim just comes out.
My instrument cluster is not flat at the bottom, and dips down about 3 more inches on each side of the steering column, making it impossible to remove. I've pulled really hard on it, with no luck.
@@LabCoatPaul I'm the one in the Rav4 group. You asked me to comment the steps here for others to have.
@@truealchiemist oh. hahaha derp. I kinda thought so. :) I pinned your comment.
Thanks fir the info!!
@@sonic5773 Of course! Try to help when I can.
This guy really dismantled his entire dashboard four times just to add the brief detail of showing off different color options at the end of the video. This is the quality content we come to youtube for.
The 3rd and 4th times were pretty easy. I can take all that stuff apart in 10 minutes now. :)
@@LabCoatPaul I kept expecting you to test them before reassembling everything.
@@slickstretch6391 I test the lights at 3:58 and at 4:30
@@LabCoatPaul Oh, yeah. I meant like comparing the colors.
@@slickstretch6391 Well.. a smart person would compare the colors with the car disassembled, but I decided to do it the hard way!
Actually there's a little bit more to the story. Setting up the camera inside the car is extremely difficult, and taking the dash apart was a little tricky too. I took the dash apart 3 times as practice runs before recording the video. That way I knew the best steps, in the exact order they need to be done, so I could minimize the amount of footage I have with me just fumbling around and doing stuff wrong.
One of the most detailed car channels on youtube. I can't believe you did this mod multiple times to test the different LED colors
The man is a scientist forreal
Keep up the Rav4 content Paul!
LONG LIVE PAUL RAV4 SERIES!!! Saludos desde Paraguay 👌🏻
Thanks to everyone's input, I discovered DROPPING THE STEERING COLUMN IS NOT NEEDED on the 1998 and newer RAV4. If you have a 1996 or 1997, you still have to do it. Toyota changed the instrument cluster trim for the later models.
What about 1995 RAV4? And why is it necessary to remove the steering column? New to the whole RAV4 adventure 😁
@@darktar2175 On the 1997 and older RAV4, the instrument cluster trim dips down below the steering column trim and it's impossible to remove it unless you get the steering column out of the way. In 1998 and newer, that trim piece is flat across the bottom and comes out without any extra work.
Just got a 99. Thank you!!
Maybe the US models are different, but on my Australian 1994 RAV4, I can drop the steering column adjustment to the lowest setting and manoeuvre the instrument cluster surround off that way… no need to touch the steering column bolts.
@@michaelnelson912 My Swiss '94 was the same, didn't have to touch the steering column, although you really have to bend the black part to get it in/out. Said a little prayer and it worked.
You know you just need to remove the 1 screw in the gauge cluster bezel, wiggle it out and then remove the cluster by rotating it 180 degrees.
Paul. Keep it up my dude! Love the Rav4 content!
Bro, you done it again! You just keep help me out man.
I've been wanting to get to the climate control since the handle inside broke and won't open any of the vents. Its been stuck on Defrost.
Many thanks
Looks Amazing, always love your videos =)
You are the best, keep it up I have a 1997 Rav4 as well. Greetings from Bolivia
Great job
thanks for the video😉. I changed the bulbs, I didn't take off the steering wheel
That's what I want too. No big ol tear down.
Best video of all time
Thanks!
amazing video man keep it up
Very nice Paul! Thank u. Please add video
Well done as always. Still hoping for a full series on a 3S-GE/ 3S-GTE swap.
Maybe some day. It's very expensive and takes a ton of work. Plus everything is 3x the labor when I make a video.
id take only white ones. keep up the videos. i really like them, it gives me great tutorials to fix my 1997 Rav4. Next step on mine is the clear headlights from 1999 Rav4, just to give it a little cleaner look and a little facelift
Спасибо! Очень подробно объясняете !
Very cool!
I did my 1990 Corolla by pulling the bulb in the front using a long flier wrapped with a rubber to have a better grip and less tendency crushing the halogen glass. The rpm and odometer cover were removable.
great to watch this video!
I am about to do red and white for my Rav4! Thanks for the guide
Note to those that have a 2000, US, and 4-door. You don't have as many steps as Paul but it's essentially the same. You still have to drop the steering, pull the dash, etc. BE CAREFUL WITH THE DASH your wire harness is probably thick and old so don't pull to hard and to the right. You're going to flip I upside-down instead. AC side is the same as Paul's
Anyways, Red is definitely dimmer than Paul's example but works great too.
Thanks Paul, my Rav4 now has a little more character.
Great content 👍.
Awesome!
THANKS PAUL!!!!!!!!!!!
Dude you literally dismantled that whole dashboard! (with a few tools).
Yup. Toyota re-designed the instrument cluster trim in 1998. You don't need to drop the steering column on the newer RAV4.
Hey Paul, how is it going? I wonder if you ever changed the pedals bushes. LED wise, they looks great! Mine is automatic, so, more lights to swap lol
Awesome !!
I'm envious of your car color.
Hey Paul, can you illuminate the needle from the speed scale and tachometer?
awesome ♥️♥️
Lots of work for some pretty lights. Would have been cool if you had multu colour LED's with a colour selector switch. Cool stufffs
I thought about that, but changing light bulbs is much easier. A multi-color setup would require some re-wiring and mounting a switch or remote somewhere. I think more people will want to just change the light bulbs.
Paul how long did this take? I have the Purple Storm Metallic exterior and interior colouring, and I think purple instrument panels would be so sweet, especially to match with that stereo you have, I have the same one which is set to purple all the time to match. This would be really really cool but I feel like a lot of work, what was your timeline of this?
Looks like I found something to do this weekend. Think I'm going with red for dash and white for climate control 🤔
Great guy
Great, thanks a lot
great job
Thank you!
@@LabCoatPaul green is magic👍
Es muy buen video y ayuda mucho
Hi Paul, I get engine noise through the steering column, have you had that problem? Your videos are very good, greetings from Argentina
exellent
Hey , question about replacing dash lights with leds. Switched all out but some weird stuff happening. Right turn signal light stopped lightning up but it does work, high beam indicator does not work after switching to LED, brake light indicator stays on ever so slightly all the time. OMG, any help totally appreciated, thanks
97 2dr 4wd 5speed
Hi Paul. Can I use the same bulbs (T5 w3w) on my '94 RAV4? And if I understand you correctly I have to follow these exact steps on the '94?
Hey paul are you able to do a video about the fuel gauge not working? I have a 1997 toyota rav4 but the gas gauge doesnt work
I might do this on my 96 rav4, but I think I have to replace something on my cluster. My speedometer doesn't show my proper speed and odometer is broken, I pushed in the odometer button and it just jammed up one time.
hey Paul, did you change your oil pump gasket or is it still in tact? i think that is the main reason why my rav4 is still leaking oil. If not i hope you will educate us on that. good luck!
I replaced the oil pump gasket and seal when I replaced the cylinder head. Check out the cylinder head video here: ua-cam.com/video/Ksv98JvBqXs/v-deo.html
or the timing belt video here: ua-cam.com/video/qabgg9DzY9w/v-deo.html
What about a 94 Japanese rhd 2 door rav4j do I have to take off the steering column??
Thank you for this brilliant video. I can actually see my gauges at night now w/ my new "Ice Blue" LEDs, same brand you bought. Hey, can you tell me if I did something wrong? My "LOW FUEL" idiot light is on now when key is in "Start" position. I have 1/4-tank. Before changing out the incandescent bulbs, Low Fuel light only came on when tank was near "E" (Empty). Did I change out the wrong bulb or something? 1998 Manual Transmission RAV4 4-door 3S-FE engine Hard-Top. THANK YOU!
I recommend changing only the dashboard illumination bulbs to LED. The indicators all need to be incandescent.
Why don't you replace the fifth bulb? What kind of bulb would you advice if chanching this fifth in combination with the LEDs?
good
How are the dash bulbs holding up? Would you recommend these bulbs over bulbs from superbrightleds?
Superbrightleds usually has higher quality LEDs, but these Amazon ones have been just fine too.
friend I have a problem with the Toyota rav4 from the same year that lowers me and my revs rise when he drove it for 10 minutes, you can help me with that.
Hey Paul, your videos have really helped me. I'm curious though, have you ever considered replacing the dash cluster with a fully digital dash?
The stock dashboard looks good and works perfectly. There is no logical reason to replace it. A digital dash might look cooler but it won't match the car, and aftermarket wiring and components are usually less reliable than original. I think installing a digital dash would make the car worse.
@@LabCoatPaul Won't match? You mean fitting or aesthetics?
@1:53 is that the 2nd interior fuse box in the top right section? Does it have a snap cover?
@lab coat paul
is it possible to install a 2 bin radio in the upper part of a rav97?
I was thinking about doing this, but mine doesn't have a dimmer I think. Looks like I'll stick with incandescent to avoid burning my eyeballs at night.
Also, wondering if you've heard of the seatbelt warning light logic being reversed. My light turns on when the seat belt is buckled, but is off when unbuckled.
What happens when you unplug the seatbelt light connector under the seat? On my car (not broken) the light stays on when it's unplugged. If I connect both terminals on the wires coming out of the floor, with a jumper wire, the light turns off.
Try that test. If you get ON with the wires disconnected, and OFF with the wires connected, then your problem is in the seat belt latch.
@@LabCoatPaul with the seatbelt sensor disconnected, the light stays off. I just shorted the connector, and it made the light turn on. I got new buckles from toyota parts deal, so I'm inclined to think that they're not the cause of this. In fact, the old buckle wasn't connected either, and the light was off when I got the rav
@@handsarecats The easy option of course is just leave it unplugged. You might have a loose connection at the instrument cluster connector that has the seat belt warning wire, or maybe the light bulb has a bad connection. It could be pulling current through the light bulb. Pull the instrument cluster out, and unplug all 3 connectors and plug them back in to see if that helps.
That's about as much electrical diagnosis as I can do without having the car and a multimeter.
@@LabCoatPaul awesome, I was going to pull the dash to change some cracked vents, so I'll be back there anyways. Thanks
Do i need to remove the steering column to remove the instrument cluster??? I need to replace the cluster as the digital odometer display is partially faded out
In 1996 and 1997, yes the steering column prevents removing the instrument cluster trim.
In 1998 and newer, the trim was re-designed and you don’t need to drop the steering column.
Will it be the same steps to change the cluster light bulbs for 1999 toyota rav4 4 door 2WD ??
It's easier on the 1999. You don't need to drop the steering column.
@@LabCoatPaul thanks Paul you are the best
If your lucky and have a tilt steering wheel you can just take the dash cluster cover off and take the cluster out. Or if your like me and don't have a tilt steering wheel, you can bend the crap out of the cover and take it out like i did.
I tried the bending strategy first, but I guess I didn't bend it hard enough.
Once again saving my butt Paul!
My 1996 JDM RAV4 doesn't have the dash lights dimmer, it's blanked out! I see that even the original brochures for that year has the light dimmer blanked out. Mind boggling. How would I find the info to figure out how to install the dimmer? Would the steering column need to be removed for that too?
1996 and 1997 RAV4 dashboard trim is shaped so it doesn't come out unless you drop the steering column. 1998 - 2000 is a different shape and doesn't require moving the steering column. If you're lucky, your car will have wiring for the dash lights dimmer, so you can just plug one in.
Great video!! Where did you get those covers by the e-brake lever?
They're the same blank switch covers as under the radio. You can pick them up at a junkyard.
@@LabCoatPaul that’s great to hear!! Thanks Paul!
Honestly, I thought the dash light pull out was way simpler. I simply need to change some bulbs man.
Based on comments from a few other people, The dashboard may be easier to remove on 1998 and newer models. Toyota changed the steering wheel and steering column a bit and you don't need to drop the column like I did. If you can get the black trim out from around the gauges, you don't need to drop the steering column.
To just replace the climate control light in my 96 is there a way to do this without dismantling so much?
You can pull the dash trim forward a few inches, and pull the bezel off the climate control. Be careful not to pull too hard so you don't break the plastic.
So we'll done
It looks easy, ill try it on my brothers car
❤
I know this was made a few years ago and I have a '99 Toyota Rav 4, 2-door.
The lights are very dim and I would ❤ to have them replaced, but frankly, as a senior, I have no idea as to how to do it, even watching the video, too complicated.
I know of no one who is even willing to bother, let alone if those bulbs would fit my particular year.
Any suggestions?
Thanks
In 1998, Toyota re-designed the dashboard and made it easier to work on. You don't need to drop the steering column to remove the trim around the gauges in your car.
It takes the same bulbs as in the video.
Any mechanic should be able to do it for you.
what about the color lights for the PRNDL?! :(
My 2000 rav 4s steering wheel can be adjusted down I wonder if I still would have to drop the steering column.
on 1998 and newer RAV4 you don't need to drop the steering column.
@@LabCoatPaul that's good because I want to fix the clock it works if I tap the dash but it just flickers then turns off
Can anyone let me know if the turn-signal dash lights are effected with rapid flashing similar to if you change the tail lights with LED bulbs without changing the flasher relay?
There's a much easier way to do this: Instrument Cluster:
Remove (1) philips head screw from cluster bezel(center top of bezel) and gently work the bezel free and out.
Undo (4) screws holding instrument cluster (use magnetic driver or be careful not to drop them down into the dash)
Angle the LH side of the cluster out and unclip the connector so you can access the backside of the cluster.
Identify the (4) bulbs; remove and replace the bulbs.
Reverse to reassemble.
No need to drop the steering column.
The Bezel is a tight fit, so be patient with it.
You can also replace the Climate control bulb without removing the dash facia;
Remove the radio instead; much easier
Pop the three switches out;
Pull the climate control out slightly
Use fine pair of tweezers/needle nose pliers to gently pull the bulb out;
Replace and restore.
This method requires a little more dexterity and physical flexibility, that's all.
Tip: Have a couple of replacement bulb sockets on hand: some bulbs may have fused themselves into the socket..
Removing the instrument cluster in a 1996 and 1997 RAV4 requires dropping the column. 1998, 1999, 2000 it's easier, like you said.
@@LabCoatPaul I have a 1997 RAV4 XA11. I replaced all the instrument cluster illumination bulbs just by removing the bezel and the four screws. I also replaced the climate control illumination bulb without removing the entire dash bezel; I removed the stereo and accessed the control unit and the bulb from underneath. It takes a little more dexterity and careful use of needle nose pliers, but it was still easier than removing the dash bezel.
I did the process as you laid out and replace the bulds with the LED bulds you listed. However I ran into a problem which I hope you or someone can help me with. After changing bulds the headlight indicator on the dashboard does not come on. Yet when I switch on the highbeam. The highbeam light indicator does turn on the dashboard. The actual headlights does turn on and off.
I recommend replacing only the dashboard illumination lights. All indicator lamps need to be incandescent.
Are the warning indicator lights the same size as the main lights?
Yes, I think so, but changing them to LED will make them too bright or change the color, so I left them alone.
WHAT years will those work on??
I have a 99 RAV 4, do you need to use any sort of load resistor for this or the cabin lighting LED upgrade you did?
Nope, just install the LEDs. The only LEDs that need resistors are turn signals.
@@LabCoatPaul the rear door LED installation went flawless. The front dome light not so much. The bulb broke off in the socket. Any suggestions on how to get it out?
@@jasontorres4668 Yes, remove the light assembly from the car. It should just be a couple screws. With it out of the car, it should be much easier to grab what's left of the bulb with some needle nose pliers.
@@LabCoatPaul Thanks Paul. I’ll do that. Does the bulb pull straight out? I have a 99 with the sunroof. It calls for the. DE3175 in the front which is not the correct bulb. Is it a BA9s? Also, thanks for all the content, my mom passed and left me the RAV4, when she had it I thought it was the biggest POS but after clean it up it’s in immaculate condition and is going to be a fun little project car.
@@jasontorres4668 Yes, the front is BA9S. This video is about the dome lights: ua-cam.com/video/IHYhd5vFEI4/v-deo.html
The front dome lights go 1/4 turn counter clockwise to be removed.
www.superbrightleds.com/moreinfo/miniature-and-subminiature-bulbs/ba9s-led-bulb-5-smd-led-tower-ba9s-retrofit-car/2077/4721/
Did you disassemble everything again just to test the other colors???
Yes I did. I'm glad you noticed.
@@LabCoatPaul You're crazy. That seems a lot of work. Following your videos since your scooter videos. Really like how thorough you explain the steps. Keep on the good work.
"it's easy"
Dismantles entire car
I didn't know this when I made the video, but 1998-2000 model years the dash is slightly different and you don't need to drop the steering column.
Can anyone get me a link or video on transfer case removal on a 97 rav4? I've found video for 2nd and 3rd generation but not first gen. Help please!
Hi Paul! Could you make a video on how to replace a faulty odometer?
Removing the instrument cluster like in this video gets you 90% of the way there. You can replace the entire set of gauges, or get another one from the junkyard and swap the speedometer only, even though it would be more work.
Can the hvac and radio swap positions?
No. Anything is possible of course, but you would have to make new support brackets to be able to swap them. It would be pretty hard to do.
Can you take out the dashboard without removing the steering column? Thanks
Nope. I tried to, but the black trim around the gauges gets stuck and forcing it doesn't work. This is the only way.
Thanks
@@victorbaird8220 Update: It might be possible on 1998 and newer RAV4, but on the 1997 and older, the column has to go down. If you can get the black plastic trim out from around the gauges, then you can skip the steering column stuff.
Sounds good.
Hello !
youre great..A 1
Hola, me gustaría saber la marca de las bombillas y si la misma bombilla cambia de color y como se hace. Gracias
amzn.to/3fTAnzw You have to select the color you want. These light bulbs can only do one color.
My 1998 toyota rav4 when i start it up the car shakes. Can u explain to me please why
If the engine is shaking on idle, you may have a misfire. Replace your spark plugs, wires, distributor cap, and rotor. Also check your air filter. ua-cam.com/video/ajq626xx6zM/v-deo.html
If your engine is dying or having trouble finding a smooth idle, you may need to clean the idle air control valve and throttle body. ua-cam.com/video/O3yb5RIlqPM/v-deo.html
If the idle is too high, you may have a vacuum leak. The hoses on the RAV4 are old, and some of them are cracked. You can spray carburetor cleaner at the hoses while the engine is running. If the RPM's go up, you've found a leak.
Pls how to repair your odometer?
How do I get to the center front roof light mine is not working
The center light turns on with the back door. Watch this video starting at 8:19 ua-cam.com/video/IHYhd5vFEI4/v-deo.html
How for toyota rav4 2003 is it the same as t5 led?
NO. I just checked a 2002 RAV4, and you can't replace the dashboard lights. They are LED's built into the instrument cluster.
Do these lights work with the 1999 rav4?
yes.
My light above the radio for the ac is burnt out but also wasnt the same size it was smaller and the left side of my dash is lowkey dim not all of it just some of it isnt hit by light so it looks cringe. Pls help
Context 1997 rav4 4door base model w awd
All the illumination bulbs in the gauges should be the same size. If you're using LED's turn on the lights before installing the dash back in the car. If one of the LED's doesn't work, flip it around 180 degrees and try again. The A/C button uses a smaller light bulb. I haven't researched that one so I don't know what bulb that is.
I choose green
Is the bulb the lights the AC button the same?
No. The light inside the A/C button is smaller, and I think it's soldered to a circuit board. That would be harder to replace.
@@LabCoatPaul Ok thanks
HOLA PAUL TENGO UN TOYOTA RAV 4 1997,TENGO UN PROBLEMA CON EL PANEL,NO PRENDEN LOS 4 BULBOS QUE ILUMINAN EL PANEL,QUE PODRA SER???ME PUEDES AYUDAR GRACIAS!!!👍👍👍ESPERO TU MSG,GRACIAS SALUDOS DESDE CHICAGO IL!!!🤗AH LOS FOCOS YA LOS CAMBIE!!!!!GRACIAS POR TU AYUDA!!!!👍👍👍
If your dashboard lights don't work, start by making sure the dimmer is set to the brightest mode. Then check your fuses. If you installed LED, try changing polarity on the bulbs by unplugging them and turning them 180 degrees.
@@LabCoatPaul PAUL YA CHEQUE LA POLARIDAD DE LAS LUCES,EL START QUE ESTE ABIERTO,EL REGULADOR DE BRILLO,ESTO ESTA BIEN,ME FALTARIA EL FUSIBLE DONDE ENCUENTRO EL FUSIBLE QUE CONTROLA ESTAS LUCES???ME PUEDES INDICAR GRACIAS!!👍👍👍PAUL!!!!!LAS LUCES DE LAS DIFERENTES FUNCIONES SI TRABAJAS LAD QUE NO PRENDEN SON LAS 4 LUCES QUE ALUMBRAN TODO EL PANEL O TABLERO!!!GRACIAS!!!👍👍👍
You’re so meticulous. Great video
Y did you take all that out I just got the dash out took me 10 minutes
The instrument cluster bezel is a different shape in the older RAV4 1996 - 1997. If you have a 1998-2000 RAV4 you don't need to drop the column.
Lütfen yardım istiyorum HELP HELP 1998 5kapı rav4 için iki adet ön helozen yay ve sağ kapı cam motoru ve kiriko fitil bulamıyorum hangi siteden ve şipariş kodları lütfen parasını sizede yollaya bilirimm lütfen help
Not sure what i did wrong, got a 99 4 door rav and saw another vid where the dude didnt have to take the whole steering column off. So i tried replacing the old bulbs with LEDS, now none of them would turn on. Tried putting the old ones that i know work and still nothing. Anyone know what i did wrong and how to fix it. Having the gauges at night would really be helpful. haha
In 1995-1997 RAV4, you have to move the steering column to remove the dashboard trim. In 1998-2000, you don't need to.
It sounds like you might have blown the instrument panel fuse.
@@LabCoatPaul thank you and ill reply again once ive done that. Honestly, seeing you work on your rav has really pushed me to start working on mine as well. Just replaced the brake master cylinder and ordered new lift kits wheels and tires as well. Hopefully mine would be somewhere close to yours
@@LabCoatPaul would blowing the fuse cause all the lights to go off? Cause all the other lights like turn signals and gear indicator is still lit up.
is that a Snap-On coffee mug?
I wish! It's a Starbuck's mug.
now, I remove the dashboard indiscriminately in 5 minutes. you just need to make a little effort to the black mask of the devices) in general, at this moment Toyota was very surprised, on other cars the dashboard is removed much easier