I have a '97 XLT. My CEL never comes on before Engine Start.

Is there a test mode that I can use to test if the light works or not before I pull the cluster out?

 

It's supposed to come on when the key is first turned from OFF to RUN. That's your bulb check.

 

It sounds like the bulb is shot or someone removed it, or stuck tape inside of it to hide it.

 

I know what you know, what I don't know is if there is another hidden test that makes all of the instrument cluster lights turn on so I can be seen if they work or not.

 

Does you cluster have mechanical miles/trip meters or is it digital?

 

97 is mechanical.

 

There is no "hidden test". The test is as I already described.

You'd likely be a lot further ahead if you simply stated what the actual problem is with the truck instead of going down a rabbit hole because you don't understand how it's supposed to work. If the engine starts and runs, then the bulb is burned out/missing as already suggested or there is a wiring concern or there is a fault in the PCM's driver circuit for the bulb.

 

Just like Projects said.. If you turn the key on and there is no light, that is the only test.

The bulb is burnt out, it's been pulled out or ?? if it does not light up.

Pulling the cluster on a 97 is not that bad, but it's a step by step process, so get a shop manual and it'll take you thru the steps.

Once you have the cluster out, there are two different bulbs in the cluster. There are the larger bulbs for the illumination of the entire cluster.. Then there are the individual idiot light bulbs.

If I recall, the illumination bulbs are your standard 194 bulbs. The idiot lights I used were called "Miniature Lamps" for automotive use of course (Sylvania was the brand)... I bought a box of 10 mini lamps and just replaced them all while I had the cluster out.

Again, the shop manual explains all of this. I used one of those Chilton manuals.

You do have to be mindful of the gear shift indicator too... That damn thing needs to be lined up correct and you have to make sure it shows the correct 'gear', or it'll look misaligned if you get it wrong.. Guess how I know that..

Good luck!

Mitch

 

Digital cluster has a "hidden" bulb test feature, but not yours

The key on/engine off "bulb test" is ODB2 protocol standards. Meaning all OBD2 cars 1997+ should do this regardless of make or model

 

I'm sorry, what part of CEL NEVER COMES ON needs clarification? I know how it works when it works right, my question was if there was a Plan B that I could try before I took the instrument panel apart. The answer to my question is, no.

I was hoping for a procedure to turn all lights on so I wouldn't have to pull the cluster out to find the problem. I have a burned out lamp.

 

Thank you, this is the answer I was looking for. Not the one I wanted, but the one I asked about.