1999 Pontiac Montana: console temperature MPG compass etc. failed

Description: A 1999 Pontiac Montana has an information console that displays temperature, MPG, compass, and other data. This console experienced intermittent failures before completely ceasing to function. Concurrently, the radio display also malfunctioned, though the radio itself remained operational. The display is faintly visible when illuminated by external light. Upon visiting the dealer for repairs, it was reported that the console was functioning properly, but the issue recurred after one day. The estimated cost for replacement is over $400, including parts and labor. It is suspected that the console may have been reset during the dealer's inspection. There is a possibility that both the Driver Information Center (DIC) and the radio are experiencing similar issues, specifically a lack of lighting despite operational functionality. The same circuit appears to drive the displays for both components. It is recommended to inspect the dimming connection from the dimmer switch located near the headlight switch, as adjusting the dimmer wheel may affect the display brightness. The dealer was unable to replicate the issue, thus it is advisable to inspect the fuses indicated in the schematics for poor contacts, particularly the Park LP fuse. Testing with a multimeter is suggested, with the common probe connected to a ground point. The "Radio" and "Park LP" fuses are both included in the schematic.

The electronic schematic for the 1999 Pontiac Montana includes the Driver Information Center (DIC) and the radio, both of which share a common circuit for their display functionalities. The DIC is responsible for providing critical information to the driver, such as temperature readings, fuel economy (MPG), and compass direction. The radio, while functioning, has a display that is difficult to read under normal lighting conditions, indicating a potential issue with the circuit that powers the display backlighting.

In terms of troubleshooting, the first step involves examining the dimming circuit connected to the headlight switch. The dimmer control is designed to adjust the brightness of the displays; therefore, testing the dimmer by turning the wheel may reveal whether the issue lies within this component. If the display brightness changes, the dimmer is likely functioning correctly. If there is no change, further investigation is warranted.

Additionally, inspecting the fuses is crucial, particularly the Park LP fuse, which is responsible for powering the lighting circuits. A multimeter should be used to measure the voltage across the fuses. The multimeter should be set to the DC voltage scale, and the common probe should be connected to a solid ground. If the fuses are found to be faulty or if there is evidence of corrosion or dirt affecting the contacts, cleaning the fuse terminals with an appropriate contact cleaner may restore functionality. If cleaning does not resolve the issue, replacing the fuses may be necessary.

Overall, the shared circuit for the DIC and radio display suggests a common failure point, likely related to the dimming control or the associated fuses. A systematic approach to testing these components will aid in diagnosing and resolving the display issues in the 1999 Pontiac Montana.A 1999 Pontiac Montana. The information console that shows temperature, MPG, compass, etc. failed off and on for a few days before finally dying. At the same time, the radio display failed. The radio works just fine. The display can be read if you shine a light on it or if the sun hits it just right. I went to the dealer to have the console repaired. They said it was fine - and it was again but only lasted one day. The cost to replace it is over $400 with parts and labor. I suspect that the console was reset when they plugged the electrical into their computer system. What do you recommend for the console and could the radio be related I am wondering if the Information Console (call the Driver Information Center) is having the same failure as the radio - that is - it is working but there is just no lighting on it. I have noticed that the same circuit is being used to drive the displays for both the radio and the DIC.

Here are the schematics with that circuit highlighted in each. What I would do is check out that dimming connection coming from the dimmer, which is near the headlight switch, and see if you can make it change by moving the dimmer wheel. I am wondering if the Information Console (call the Driver Information Center) is having the same failure as the radio - that is - it is working but there is just no lighting on it.

I have noticed that the same circuit is being used to drive the displays for both the radio and the DIC. Here are the schematics with that circuit highlighted in each. What I would do is check out that dimming connection coming from the dimmer, which is near the headlight switch, and see if you can make it change by moving the dimmer wheel.

I am wondering if the Information Console (call the Driver Information Center) is having the same failure as the radio - that is - it is working but there is just no lighting on it. I have noticed that the same circuit is being used to drive the displays for both the radio and the DIC.

Here are the schematics with that circuit highlighted in each. What I would do is check out that dimming connection coming from the dimmer, which is near the headlight switch, and see if you can make it change by moving the dimmer wheel. I am wondering if the Information Console (call the Driver Information Center) is having the same failure as the radio - that is - it is working but there is just no lighting on it.

I have noticed that the same circuit is being used to drive the displays for both the radio and the DIC. Here are the schematics with that circuit highlighted in each. What I would do is check out that dimming connection coming from the dimmer, which is near the headlight switch, and see if you can make it change by moving the dimmer wheel.

I am wondering if the Information Console (call the Driver Information Center) is having the same failure as the radio - that is - it is working but there is just no lighting on it. I have noticed that the same circuit is being used to drive the displays for both the radio and the DIC.

Here are the schematics with that circuit highlighted in each. What I would do is check out that dimming connection coming from the dimmer, which is near the headlight switch, and see if you can make it change by moving the dimmer wheel. Since the dealer could not get the system to fail, I would at least inspect the fuses shown in the schematics.

Sometimes there is dirt that gets in there causing a poor contact. I would check both the Park LP fuse first. First of all - under the hood or on the side fuse panel. Second, how do you test with the multimeter. Third - How do you clean the contact or should the fuses be changed/ I do most of my testing with a multimeter, set on the DC voltage scale so that I can read the voltage. The other probe (Common) is usually attached to a good ground point on the frame or engine block. The "Radio" fuse and the "Park LP" fuse are both shown as being in