How to Replace the Dashboard Dimmer Switch in a Jeep Grand Cherokee

Unfortunately, every car and vehicle has some type of problem that is routinely experienced by many of the vehicles of that model and make. This is usually because the part used to manufacture the thousands of vehicles that experience the problem was faulty, but lasted long enough that no one recognized the issue until it was fairly widespread.

One of those parts on the Jeep Grand Cherokee is the dimmer switch on the left side of the dashboard. This small turning dial often becomes damaged slightly so that the lights in the dashboard of the Cherokee are dim, or so that they flicker occasionally.

Luckily, the dimmer switch is a moderately inexpensive part that is can be easily changed by anyone with basic mechanical knowledge.

Note: Always disconnect the battery from the vehicle before doing any electrical work, or you risk serious injury or even death.

Step 1

Purchase a new dimmer switch for your exact model of Cherokee-if you get the wrong one, it may not fit in the dash or the connectors may be wrong. This part can be purchased from AutoZone, from a local Jeep dealer, or online at various auto part retailers.

Step 2

Remove the battery from the vehicle, or disconnect the wires and cover them some non-conductive material to prevent any accidental connections.

Remove the lower and mid-level dashboard panels. This varies depending on what year your Jeep is, but is generally accomplished by unscrewing a handful of screws from beneath the dashboard, removing the first panel, then unscrewing the screws that were hidden by the first panel and removing the rest of the dash. There may also be some small metal clips, which are easy to press backwards.

Step 3

With the dashboard out of the way, reach under the edge of the steering column and feel for the two power clips that connect the dimmer switch to the rest of the electrical system; they are connected by small plastic clips, so don't tug on them or the plastic may break, causing a permanently loose connection.

Slide the dimmer component out of the dashboard and toss it in the trash (or consider recycling it at an auto shop).

Step 4

Put the two wires of the new dimmer switch into the hole and press the component into place-if it doesn't fit, you received the wrong switch, and you should exchange it for the proper one (never try to force an incorrect piece to fit). Feel under the dash and plug the two wires into the clips, careful not to get them mixed up.

Before reassembling the dashboard, put the key in the ignition and turn it to first position. Turn the switch to make sure everything works properly (make sure you connect the battery first). If it works right, put the panels back on the dash, ensuring that you screw the bolts into place where they go.