It'* been over a year since I messed with this stuff, (and I still haven't got all the screws back in) but I am slowly remembering more about the setup. If the gear selector light is out (red dot, not the letters) that can be fixed by replaceing the light bulb at the base of the optical cords. You will need to dig in there a bit to get to the bulb but it is a fairly standard bulb you can get from the auto store.

And the bezel is actually 'edge' lit, not backlit. Near the front end (closest to the ashtray) if memory serves. That fixture is spring loaded.

You're talking about the PRNDL piece that is spring loaded? That makes sense then since I can press down on it and it pops up. I will have to check in there for the bulbs and see if I can fix it. It would be nice if it lit up.

Yes, the bezel is spring loaded, but I recall the edge light FIXTURE is also independently spring loaded. It stays in place when the console is removed.

Mine is (dimly) lit as well. I should probably take it apart, fix it where necessary, then write a long, droning, six-page article about it...

Go for it Andy!

check out http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...pic.php?t=2224

Haven't forgotten about this, but got sidetracked after breaking a strut on my station car (BMW 5-series). Gotta fix that &%$* thing before winter arrives so I don't have to keep driving the SSEi to the station in all kinds of weather...

ok sense this topic is close to what my issue is I have the little red lights on all gears cept reverse its not a big problem but how so I go about fixing it?

Does anyone have the part # for the bulb that lights up the little orange dots? I have a '96 and it does not light up, but the bulb is probably out. If you think about it, how are you supposed to know which gear you are in at night? It would have to be lit up

But I remember someone saying the bulb that was needed was similar to a 194 bulb but had a strange tip on it to direct the light. If we can get a part # I'll order it online.

Thanks.....Chris