Finicky Gear Shifter Lights

[skyak]

I have an 07 4runner. When I turn the headlights on, all of the expected buttons illuminate EXCEPT for the gear shifter lights between the seats. When I shift gears into Drive, and then move the shifter between Drive and 4, the lights activate. They will then typically work until the next cold restart.

It's almost like the relay or whatever needs a little xtra "jiggle" to make the connection.

Any ideas on a fix? Can't see a bad bulb causing this...Other part?

 

[webfootwacker]

I, too have the same issue with my o6 4runner.been this way for a year or so.I have just been dealing with it,kinda annoying.

 

[skyak]

I will try swapping the bulb out to see if that makes any difference...

Maybe there is a loose connection or something that will find.

If we both have had the issue you would think there would be are others also.

 

[webfootwacker]

let me know what you find out.Thanks.

 

[skyak]

Took apart the gear shifter console last night. Took me a while but finally managed to remove the bulb. Went to dealership today to get new bulb. They had the bulb but not the orange coloured bulb cover (the old one was not reusable). Special ordered the cover. Won't be able to reinstall until Wednesday when the cover arrives.

I think the issue may have been caused by the rubber shifter plate contacting the wiring to the bulb. The rubber extends into void space as you move the gear shifter from Park to Drive. The light wiring is very tight with practically no free play. Perhaps moving the gear shifter could get the light to work by rubbing the rubber plate against the wiring...?

 

[skyak]

Replaced bulb. Reinstalled centre console. All good now. Simple fix...just make sure you order the orange cover when you order the bulb!

 

[webfootwacker]

Thanks Sky,I'll try mine this weekend.Web.

 

[agb104983]

I had the same issue and the bulb fixed it. However, you don't need that orange bulb from the dealer. I went to O'relly's with the bulb and found one that matched. It was clear(not orange) but I got two of them and they were less than $2 total. The difference between using the orange bulb and the clear bulb I replaced it with is negligible.

 

[webfootwacker]

How did you guys get the console panel off?.Do you pry it and what end did you start at?I did not see any screws or bolts.Thanks.

 

[skyak]

You pry it at the back corners (closest to the rear of the vehicle). I used a plastic bicycle tire remover lever, but any flathead screwdriver will work fine.

 

[webfootwacker]

Thanks Skyak,got the bulb replaced and works like a champ.

 

[skyak]

Nice work. Funny how these little details make a difference!

 

[MrEMan]

Sorry to revive such an old thread, but I've been experiencing the same problem ... wondering if you have the part number for the bulb?

 

[20034RunnerV84x2]

Sorry to revive such an old thread, but I've been experiencing the same problem ... wondering if you have the part number for the bulb?

Just go to the dealer and ask them for the gear shifter bulb, what I did when the bulb went out in my 03 Highlander.

 

[Ocsmity]

How did you guys get the bulb out?? Mine is surrounded be white plastic and I can't get my fingers around it. I'm sitting in my car now trying (