Gear Selector Light? or no light?

[ZPM]

Happy New Year everyone.

We have a 2003 Avensis saloon, automatic.

When driving after sunset the other day, my other half went to put our automatic into gear and then realised that the selector in the middle consule was not lit up. As I mostly drive when it's very light, I  have not noticed this and cannot remember whether the automatic selector panel that has the actual gear lever in it should be illuminated. Can anyone confirm this for us? My son says he thinks it was illuminated at some point but cannot be sure.

If it should be illuminated, why has it gone dark? We cannot see the gear shift selector in the dark. I have looked all through my handbook and paid especial attention to things like the mention of spare light bulbs, yet nothing is said concerning this matter. All that is mentioned is how to select the gears manually with the automatic selector when you need that function.

Any constructive thoughts before I go to the dealership, please?

Cheers

ZPM

[alan333]

It's illuminated on the T25 (2003-2008) model, and on the T27 (2009 on) model.  It's quite easy to access the bulb on the T25.

[ZPM]

Thanks Alan333 - I will try to locate it. Happy New Year. ZPM

[alan333]

4 hours ago, ZPM said:

Thanks Alan333 - I will try to locate it. Happy New Year. ZPM

Assuming yours is a T25, you need to remove the gear lever surround.  The whole section including the ashtray comes out in one piece.  Start at the handbrake end by simply pulling it upwards, you might need a plastic spatula or something if it's tight.