My daughter has a 1998 Honda Accord LX automatic 4-cyl. When she starts the engine and shifts into Drive, "D4" does not light up. All the other lights will light up when she shifts into the other gears.

I am suspecting a switch is bad, or that particular light just gave out because it is the one that is on all the time.

Is there a fix for this?

Thanks!

 

The problem is usually a burnt out bulb in the dash panel. Bulb replacement is available at Honda parts, ebay, etc. This bulb burns far more than others so is prone to burn out while others are fine.

Gauge panel must be removed to access bulb. ChecK DIY forum for guidance and youtube for videos.

A shop manual is handy for guidance on gauge panel access and removal. See automanualsource.com for a download manual for $22.

good luck

 

ok, so if it is just a bulb, i should easily be able to remove the instrument panel and replace the bulb?

almost as easy as replacing a tail-light or headlight? no soldering, just unplug and plug new bulb in?

is this maybe a 1 hour job?

any idea what the bulb # is?

 

I would say about 1-2 hrs first time. Challenge is removing the trim pieces to get to the gauge panel. You don't want to damage trim getting it out. That's reason for shop manual and youtube videos.

I don't know bulb number. Honda parts outlet can supply bulb. Check ebay also for "grain of wheat" bulbs. They are tiny.

Some folks simply move one of the other bulbs, say D1 to the D4 position and leave D1 open.

good luck

 

Thanks everyone... will just go ahead and order 3 bulbs... for P, R and D4. I don't want to have to take it part again !

 

Thanks Everyone... it was an easy fix!! Just pull the instrument cluster, take cover off and replace bulb!

Now I wonder about the behavior of the lights.. when you first put the key in and twist it to start the car, the P and D4 light is on for about 2 seconds, then the D4 light goes off and only the P light is on. Is this normal?

Other than that everything is fine.

 

Yes, normal. If the D4 ever stays on then there is an issue with the trans or something related to it.

 

THANKS !! Now I can rest knowing its all taken care of!!