My 95 ssei has the 5 push-button shift mode/traction control/suspension mode switch pod on the console beside the shifter. The switch pod has 2 types of illumination. The switch labels are illuminated by a set (one per button) of "filament" mini-bulbs on the same circuit as the instrument cluster, so the illumination of the labels dims/brightens along with the cluster. Then each push-button has an indicator light (light emitting diode) to indicate for each push-button if it is activated.

My problem is that one of the label illumination bulbs and one of the indicator LEDs have failed. I have removed the switch pod from the vehicle, and discovered that the label illumination bulbs are individually removable, so it appears the switch pod was designed with the intention that these bulbs could be replaced.

But neither the owner'* manual or the service manual lists replacement bulbs for the switch pod. I went to the local Pontiac dealership parts department, and they confirmed there is no listing for replacement bulbs, the switch pod is not a serviceable item, in other words, then individual components are not available through Pontiac, the only part listed is the entire switch pod, the price is over $500 (canadian).

The label illumination bulbs are removable from the outside of the switch pod, but to obtain access to the indicator LEDs the switch pod must be disassembled, which I have done. It contains a circuit board, which the 5 indicator LEDs are soldered onto.

Has anyone else had a problem with the lights on their console switch pod, either the label illumination, or the activated indicator?

Anyone know of GM part numbers or component reference numbers for either the label illumination mini-bulbs or the activated indicator LEDs, or better yet, if a replacement circuit board is available, either from GM, or from the actual manufacturer of the switch pods, which is a company called INVOTRONICS, or any other suggestions for a cost-effective repair?

You should also try to verify what voltage these bulbs are. Hook it back up and read across the contacts of the bad LED and the removed bulb. Hopefully they're all 12v. The illumination bulbs are probably the same ones used in your steering wheel controls, also. Were there any numbers listed on the body of the lamp? (get out the magnifying glass).

those bulbs are permanantly attached to the circuit board. I had the same prblem. The light wouldn't light up when I pushed normal shift. So I went to the junk yard and just took a circuit board outta that car and neatly put the casing back. LOL. I got a $375 switch for free!

good to know at least one other has had same problem. where I am with this is:

label bulbs - checked for markings, none found, bulbs measure 1/4 inch long, 1/8 inch dia. looked at catalogues on a few bulb makers web sites, think these must be 12 volt sub miniature T-1 Wire Terminal bulbs. will visit parts store this weekend.

indicator LEDs - took the circuit board to Radio Shack, they want $25 labour to replace all 5 LEDs, will let them figure out the proper replacement LED, told them to let me know what part # they use, so I can share this info. They say the board will be ready next Tuesday

any thoughts why the LEDs fail, according to the hyp, they're supposed to be good for like 100,000 hours, no way a car sees anywhere near that usage. Were these just faulty parts, stressed during circuit board assembly, too much vibration, heat, cold, too much voltage coming in (i.e. problem with car electical/charging system)?

label bulbs - found replacements at RadioShack, 12V 60mA Wire Terminal base MicroLamps, Lamp type 7219, Bulb type T-1, RadioShack part # 272-1092C, package of 2 for $3

Those LED'* might not be out. They may fail to illuminate due to an electrical/mechanical fault in the respective system. You should have them checked before RS gouges your wallet.

thanks, had same thought, according to circuit diagram for switch pod ('95 CH Service Manual book 2, page 8A-43-3) the tour & performance ride indicator LEDs are activated by the CCR controller, the traction control indicator LED is activated by the Elec. Brake & Traction Control Module, but the normal & performance shift indicator LEDs are simply activated by the switch in the pod.

It is my normal shift indicator that is out, but the performance shift indicator is good, according to the diagram they share the same power & ground, so if one works and the other doesn't the only possibilities I think are bad LED, bad circuit board etching, or bad micro-switch. It'* a bit of a gamble, but between these 3, I think a bad LED is most likely.

Good deal. You're on the right track. Nice to see some good logical troubleshooting!

Let us know how it goes.

in hindsite, I should have plugged the circuit board back into the console wiring harness, and then checked for voltage across the suspect LED, to confirm bad LED. Should have circuit board with new LEDs back by weekend.