dashboard lighting getting very dim

[mikep]

The dashboard on my 1996 Xantia is getting very dim, if it was a fuse
surely it would be totally dark. Tried turning the reset switch but no difference. Has anyone ever had this problem ?

[exect]

Its probably some of the bulbs in the dash that have blown.
Regards
Exect

[Xantidote]

If the dimmer/rheostat by your right knee is working OK, then as Exect says, likely just to be blown bulbs, of which there are quite a few. Without looking, I have 3 around the rev counter, and I guess another 3 illuminating the speedo, + various others dotted around. The odd failed bulb I live with, but 2 close together can be a nuisance

[spider]

I'd agree blown bulbs too assuming the dimmer is OK (I just bypassed mine on my 205 as it flickered occasionally)

As they use bits of plastic to "spread" the light, sometimes one blown bulb is not noticeable.

The other possibility is just blackened bulbs due to age etc, this would certainly cause them to be a little bit dim.

[bonnyman750]

I've just had the same problem and my cure was a replacement second hand alternator! I noticed that the dash lights, particularly the switch back lights were getting dim and so I put a multimeter across the battery. At rest I was only getting 11.5 volts. Recharging the battery made a difference, so I then tested the battery with the engine running, the headlights, heated rear screen and the blower on full. The meter barely got over 10.9 volts at tickover and revving the engine quite hard only achieved 11.5-12 volts. Took the car to a local auto electrician who confirmed my suspicions that the alternator was breaking down under load. The S/H replacement has sorted out the problem...

HTH

Glyn

[Clogzz]

If the voltage is low, the flasher will be slower.
The voltage can be ‘gauged’ from the turn signal flashing speed.