Technical Changing HVAC backlights on a RHD Panda?

[Tom95]

Replacing HVAC backlight bulbs on a RHD Panda?

Hey all.

So far, loving my foray back into the world of Panda ownership. However, I noted the other night that half of the ventilation controls have no backlighting when the headlights are on (the left two - fan speed and temperature).

Evidently, this is a fairly common issue caused by a bulb burning out. I even found a video detailing the exact process:

https://youtu.be/UxZanBh0rkk

I've been able to pry the panel out as-per the video, but the problem I'm facing now is that because my car is RHD, the light that needs replacing is on the other side of the panel (if that makes sense)

It feels to me like there are another set of clips directly in line with the gear lever that are stopping the panel from coming out further - does anyone know whether this is the case? I've tried applying as much force as I'm game to, but they didn't budge.

 

[Herts Hillhopper]

Tom95 Take a look here - and note that somewhere in the comments is an update for the post 2012 model https://www.fiatforum.com/panda-guides/298058-how-replace-panda-heater-control-lights.html

There are two separate bulbs - one behind each pair of controls. You can pry the black surround from either the temperature and fan speed control, or the direction and recirc control out of the dash. On the 2012- model you don't need to remove the knobs - they come away with the black surround. The clips are very strong (they are metal springs so will not snap) but once you get it started it will ping off quite easily.
Photos below in next reply

 

[Herts Hillhopper]

Here’s how to remove the left panel. Exact same approach for the other side…
Before you start, turn both knobs fully to the left - this helps line them up as you put it back together.
Work a pry tool around the edge of the trim. To get it started, pull the temperature control towards you to leave a gap the pry tool will fit into. Ease it all the way round. Once free enough you can pull the panel out by hand. Last phot - my finger is pointing at the bulb

 

[Tom95]

Thanks. I didn't scroll far enough down to see the 2012+ update ?

However, after much perseverance and some very, very, very sore finger tips I managed to get both sides off and swap the bulbs!

Happily, everything snapped back together with ease.

Success!

 

[Herts Hillhopper]

Using a nylon pry tool saves the fingers. A set of them is a very useful addition to the toolkit (and not just for the car)

 

[Tom95]

Using a nylon pry tool saves the fingers. A set of them is a very useful addition to the toolkit (and not just for the car)

I agree 100%. I do infact have a set for removing door cards and that kind of thing, but they're all a little too thick