Guage Cluster Lights...
 

Anyone here change out their gauge cluster LEDs? Been thinking about changing them to blue. Any tips?

I am fairly certain they are soldered in LEDs. They may be replaceable, but it's not going to be a simple plug and play swap.

Nick C.

There is a DIY on how to change the clock and thermostat bulbs on YouTube, which are soldered it. Ide imagine its the same will all cockpit lights.

I've thought about doing something similar, don't know if it'd be worth it though. I've been wanting to put red like on the BRZ, the white is just to bright. I've kinda wondered if it would be just a simple swap from the BRZ to the FR-S. Sorry if its a bit off topic.

Not me, but it has been done by someone already.

Attachment 63913

Yea, found that one. I think I'm going to start with those and work my way to the gauge cluster once I know what i'm getting myself into. I used to do a fair amount of soldering about 12 years ago but haven't done any since so just worried I'm going to ruin the boards.

use a butane with an adjustable temp setting or a mini 12W soldering iron.

Good to know. I was at Fry's last night looking at irons and didn't know if 12w would be too low.

Picked up a 12w iron, some solder, wick, sponge, and ordered some LEDs this morning. Going to start with the center console and work my way up to the gauge cluster. I'll keep this thread updated as I make progress.

You should post up a DIY on it. remember now not too much heat with these newer PCB. :thumbsup:

Yea, I'll be taking pictures/video and post a DIY once i'm done.

I am a bit worried about the heat since I haven't done it in a while. I did buy a little practice PCB to practice on before I go for it :P

Got some LEDs in yesterday so I decided to try em out after work.

https://scontent-a-pao.xx.fbcdn.net/...18538822_n.jpg

This panel only has 3 LEDs and it's super easy to get to. The whole process took about 30min I think (I took pictures along the way, minus removing panels, I can do that later). They aren't very bright unfortunately. I may have to find brighter ones but good start for now at least :P I'll move to the HVAC next. Not sure when I'll get to that though.

Yes they are. And for a clean job, first is to not go cheap on the LED's. They seem to have a weird hue after being soldered in. Secondly, find someone who's really really good att soldering and have them do the work just to play it safe. And after it's done, post pix for us to drool over.