Auxiliary Gauge Lighting for newer Module controlled Dash Lights
Introduction
 
This “How-To” is for the lighting of newly installed gauges, and contolling them with the same dashboard “Dimmer” circuit that the rest of the dash lights use. This “How-To” is for the 2003 Tahoe that uses a processor module to control the dash lighting, and other functions. (It probably works on newer GM vehicles, as well.) The module in question is the Body Control Module (BCM). The BCM is located under the steering wheel behind the Knee Bolster – the flat dash panel below the steering wheel. This “How-To” does not address the installation of the gauges, but only how to illuminate the gauges after they are installed.
 
Procedure
 
The wires for the light bulb, regardless of the type – LED or incandescent, must be long enough to reach the Body Control Module under the dash.
 
Under the steering wheel
Figure 1.Below the Dashboard
 
Step 1. Remove the Dashboard Trim Ring. This is a matter of gently pulling on the Trim Ring until the spring clips release it from the dashboard.
 
Dashboard Trim Piece
Figure 2. Dashboard Trim Piece
 
The Back Detail of the Dash Trim Piece
Figure 3. Back detail of the Dashboard Trim Piece showing the clips
 
Step 2. Remove the driver’s side fuse cover, and then the Knee Bolster from the bottom of the dashboard. Remove the two 7mm bolts holding the bottom edge of the Knee Bolster near the parking brake release. NOTE: The Trim Ring must be removed first in order to remove the Knee bolster as the Trim Ring holds the upper edge of the Knee Bolster.
 
Step 3. Remove the four 10 mm nuts holding the Knee Bolster Reinforcement Plate.
 
Step 4. Pull the C1 connector from the BCM.
 
The Body Control Module
Figure 4. Body Control Module beneath the Steering Wheel.
 
The C1 Connection Diagram
Figure 5. The C1 Connection Diagram.
 
Step 5. Splice in the positive Light bulb lead to the Pin “A” red wire. Connect the negative bulb to ground. Use one of the Knee Bolster Reinforcement Plate 10 mm nuts as the ground connection. Test.
 
Step 6. Clean up the excess wiring. Use wire ties as appropriate.
 
Step 7. Replace the Knee Bolster Reinforcement Plate, and tighten the four 10 mm nuts holding the Plate to the back of the dash.
 
Step 8. Replace the Knee Bolster and secure it with the two 7 mm screws on the bottom edge. Press the left side Fuse cover back into place.
 
Step 9. Press the Dashboard Trim Ring back onto the Dashboard.
 
Step 10. Done.
 
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