2002 TBird Instrument panel lights

[Bark624]

Was driving my Bird recently at night, The instrument panel (temp, tach, speed, fuel) started blinking on and off, then went dark completely. Replaced the fuse, still no lights. Checked the relays in the box, all seem Ok. Thinking maybe there is a bulb burned out? Looking through the manual it says all dash lights must be serviced at a Dealership. All that means to me is $$$. Anybody else have this problem? And any cheaper alternatives? Thanks!

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[Gus Gutz]

The headlights and dash are controlled by the FEM (front electronic module). There are other symptoms of the FEM going bad but the headlights are a big clue. Every now and then I had an issue with the wipers going on and off or the steering would stay in freeway mode when I got off the freeway. There are other issues like window drop problems and top problems, but when the headlights failed on the way to work it was time to replace it.

 

[johnny b Sr.]

The headlights and dash are controlled by the FEM (front electronic module). There are other symptoms of the FEM going bad but the headlights are a big clue. Every now and then I had an issue with the wipers going on and off or the steering would stay in freeway mode when I got off the freeway. There are other issues like window drop problems and top problems, but when the headlights failed on the way to work it was time to replace it.

where do you find the FEM module. Johnnyb Sr.

 

[tommyc]

where do you find the FEM module. Johnnyb Sr.

Check out this older thread. It's just like paint-by-numbers! 🙂

https://forums.fordthunderbirdforum.com/threads/front-electronic-module.6215/#post-37807

 

[CherokeeMarty]

where do you find the FEM module. Johnnyb Sr.

I had the speedometer lights issue that can be found in other threads. The service rep at my local dealer decided to try fixing the with a new FEM which was ordered through the Ford parts chain. It was installed and flashed with the original program, and it worked just fine. Fixed all of my problems. The FEM part number is 1W6Z 14B205 AA.

 

[Bikerbabe]

Thanks Phil. I think our problems are different though. I have never lost headlights, in either mode. It's just the instrument panel does not light up in either mode.

Which fuse was it

 

[CherokeeMarty]

Which fuse was it

It's not a fuse. It's the Front Electronics Module.

 

[AF1262]

It's not a fuse. It's the Front Electronics Module.

Send your front electronic model to Automotivemodules.com #734-228-8679. Just had mine repaired $208.00 + $14.75 mailing. Works great and also improved steering

 

[Gus Gutz]

Send your front electronic model to Automotivemodules.com #734-228-8679. Just had mine repaired $208.00 + $14.75 mailing. Works great and also improved steering

The speed sensitive steering is controlled by the FEM. Before mine was replaced, I would get off the freeway and my steering felt like the power unit was no longer working.