2003 Dashboard lights out

[LouieB]

Our 2003’ speedometer and tachometer lights just stopped working one day. The lights on every other instrument radio, a/c, switches all light up. I took the car to the dealership to get the fuse replaced (because I could not determine which fuse was tied to the Dash) and was surprised to hear the problem was not a fuse but some other module buried deep in the dashboard. To replace was going to cost $1000.00.
Please tell me there is an easier and cheaper way to fix this issue.

This page contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated. As an eBay Partner, and Amazon Associate I may be compensated if you make a purchase at no cost to you.

 

[Gus Gutz]

Search the forum for FEM or front electronic module. 1000 is a fair price at the dealership.

Read this thread about the FEM which can be repaired-

Help needed Front Electronic Module FEM 2002-2005

My lights went off and my drivers window would not go down. The radio would not turn off when the door was opened and the windows do not drop. this happened twice in two days. I am sure it is the front electronic module. Anyone know what to do and where to take it? MODERATOR NOTE 2020- We've...

forums.fordthunderbirdforum.com

 

[steelers12]

Search the forum for FEM or front electronic module. 1000 is a fair price at the dealership.

I am also experiencing the same issue. My 2002 only has 5,000 miles on it and has always been stored inside. Has never been driven in the rain or snow, currently living in Florida. My mechanic has had the vehicle for almost 2 months, has not had the time yet to thoroughly investigate. Have heard stories about the dealers working on these vehicles and over-charging big time, but if something is not discovered soon, I may be forced to take to the dealership? VERY Sad situation, with only 5,000 original miles, it does not say much for Ford, the vehicle is like new. The light switch on my vehicle has probably only been turned on less than 10 times. Sad Sad Sad!! I would gladly pay only $1000 if that was all it would cost? Keep me posted Gus on what happens.

 

[steelers12]

Thanks for your response Gus. I understand mileage has less to do with the issue than the mere age, but still very disturbing when I look at the perfect visual condition of my 02 bird and to know that it is clean enough to eat off the engine. A real shame that the quality is what it is. Yes and thank you for pointing out about the site mentioning the places where they can re-build the FEM (if that is exactly what it is). I’m 70 years old and not a mechanic, so I would feel very uncomfortable pulling anything out, especially not having the expertise to have it synch’d back up with the rest of the modules in the car.

 

[lvb]

Our 2003’ speedometer and tachometer lights just stopped working one day. The lights on every other instrument radio, a/c, switches all light up. I took the car to the dealership to get the fuse replaced (because I could not determine which fuse was tied to the Dash) and was surprised to hear the problem was not a fuse but some other module buried deep in the dashboard. To replace was going to cost $1000.00.
Please tell me there is an easier and cheaper way to fix this issue.

My dash lights would go out when I accelerated and cruise control worked but not like it should, new clock spring fixed both problems. 165 labor, part 135

 

[bobsmethers]

This car is essentially a 2door, convertible Lincoln LS. If you're going to take it to a dealer, I'd consider a Lincoln dealer first. And most major cities have repair shops that specialize in certain brands. I'd google Ford Repair Specialist + city name. These guys are often former Ford employees who've set up their own shop, and have both the knowledge and passion for these cars.

 

[nukem]

My 2004 t-bird started with the headlight not working and progressed from there....dash light....etc...replaced the front control module...1000.00....resolved most of the issues but started a new one...gas gage only show halve tank when full..now the secondary fuel pump started to screw up...could this be the pump also....replaced that several years ago....there is another control module.....in the rear....can this be the problem....somebody....HELP