Nissan Repair: 99 Nissan Sentra Dash and Radio Ilumination problems, blower motor resistor, illumination problem

Question
QUESTION: Dear Expert,

My power window master switch seems to not work anymore.  I tried replacing it with a used one but it wasn't the same pin configuration and I think I may have shorted a circuit.  My Illumination lights don't work anymore when i switch on my head lights.  The clock on the radio also turns off when i switch on the main head lights.  Do you have any suggestions on how to fix this problem?  Thanks!


ANSWER: Jose,

Get the powper master window switch first.  Then, replace the instrument light fuse.  If that does not do the trick check the dimmer switch for the instruments and if that does not do the trick you will have to replace the combination switch that controls the headlights.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Expert,

I have replaced the master switch and the windows are working properly.  However, i still have the dash and stereo illumination problem.  I tried bypassing the dimmer switch but kept on shorting the circuit. It kept blowing out the tail light fuse.  I don't think the car has a fuse specifically for the instrument light.  Do you think a wiring diagram would help?  Where would i find the combination switch?  Also, my heater fan speed knob only works at speed level 4.  I replaced the knob with a used one and I still have the same problem.  Any suggestions??  Thanks!

Answer
Jose,

The instrument light problem is caused by the master switch on the steering column.  This is the one that the headlights are on.  It is under $100 bucks and just takes a phillips screwdriver to replace.  You have to remove the column cover to get to it.

The other problem is the blower motor resistor cluster that needs to be replaced.  It is under the passenger side of the dash behind the glovebox.  Remove the glovebox to get access.  Something like $35 bucks for the resistor part.