Hi,
I have a 2002 Accord, I replaced the factory radio with a new one, and now the illumination lights (make the screen brighter when the headlights are turned on) for the clock and A/C screen don't work.
The lights for the dashboard and headlights still work. I didn't find any blown fuses, and we didn't connect the illumination wires to the new radio. Does anyone know what the problem could be? Thank you.

 

I've got this problem in my 2003 Accord. I've read that it's a common problem and can be fixed by soldering something in the computer board behind the panel. There are videos on Youtube showing how to do it. I couldn't find a garage that would.

Pearlie

 

Do you have a link to one of those videos? Thanks

 

Here's one.


If you're successful, would you let us know? After I get my power steering hoses fixed I might try fixing it myself because it drives me crazy not to have those lights.

 

Most common problems and electrical circuits/systems for the different generation Accords are not the same.

For the 2002 Accord, the cause may be due to the fuse(s), multiplex control unit (mcu), or wiring. Start with the under-dash fuse(s). In addition to the under-hood fuse box, there is both a driver's side and a passenger's side under-dash fuse box.

 

I checked all the fuses, nothing is blown, the weird thing is at first the A/C backlight wouldn't work, but now it does, but I didn't do anything to it. I would be happy if the one in the clock would work.

 

That car is different than mine, that won't work for me.

 

Common cause on your generation Accord is the clock illumination bulb needs to be replaced. Honda part number 35505-S84-B02.

 

But it only stopped after I changed the radio. So I think something else is wrong, is there a way to test the bulb or a way to see if it's getting power?

 

Gently pry the clock bezel assembly out. Unplug connector, test for power on the yellow wire with the ignition switch in the ON or START position.

 

Is there a black wire or something for the -? Also should it be 12 volts?

 

There is a black wire for ground; however, you may want to test for voltage with a different ground point first (other chassis ground) in case there is an issue with the ground wire to rule out the power wire.

Voltage is battery power; so, ~ 12 volts.

 

I checked the yellow wire, it has power, but it also has power when the headlights are off, so I don't think that's the wire for the illumination light. Do you know what the other wires go to? Thanks for your help.

 

As I stated previously, common cause on your generation Accord is the clock illumination bulb needs to be replaced.

The yellow wire is power for the clock's backlight. There are other illumination/dimming wires (red/blk and red); however, they are related to the brightness control with the clock's backlight. If your's does not even turn on, it is most likely the bulb.

 

Ok, I'll get a new bulb and see if that helps.

 

I know it's been a few months, but I did replace the bulb and that fixed it, thanks everyone!