Dim or malfunctioning speedometer lights can significantly hinder your driving experience and compromise your safety. The 2013 Honda Accord speedometer light bulb is designed to provide illumination for the speedometer, allowing you to easily read the vehicle’s speed, odometer, and other essential information, especially during night driving. Replacing the bulb is a relatively simple task that can be completed in minutes with minimal tools. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to change the 2013 Honda Accord speedometer light bulb, ensuring your vehicle’s gauges remain illuminated and clear for optimal driving conditions.
Before embarking on the bulb replacement, it is crucial to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a new 194 type or T5 wedge bulb, and a small flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool for prying open the instrument cluster. Additionally, it is recommended to wear gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints on the instrument panel and ensure a clean installation. Once you have assembled your materials, prepare your Accord by turning off the engine, engaging the parking brake, and disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any electrical shorts or damage to the vehicle’s electrical system.
With the preparatory steps complete, you can proceed with the bulb replacement.Locate the instrument cluster, which is the panel that houses the speedometer, tachometer, and other gauges. In the 2013 Honda Accord, the instrument cluster is located directly in front of the steering wheel. To access the instrument cluster, you will need to remove the steering column cover. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the cover, and carefully lift it away from the steering column. Once the cover is removed, you will have access to the instrument cluster.
Identifying the Correct Bulb Type
Before embarking on the speedometer light bulb replacement adventure in your 2013 Honda Accord, it’s crucial to determine the exact bulb type required for your dashboard illumination. To do this, refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual, which usually provides detailed information on the bulb specifications.
Typically, the 2013 Honda Accord utilizes T5 wedge-style bulbs for its speedometer illumination. These bulbs are compact, featuring a single contact point on each end and a diameter of approximately 5 millimeters. They emit a bright, concentrated light that effectively illuminates the speedometer display.
To further assist you, here’s a table summarizing the bulb type information for your convenience:
| Vehicle Model | Speedometer Bulb Type |
|---|---|
| 2013 Honda Accord | T5 Wedge Bulb |
Once you’ve confirmed the correct bulb type, you can proceed to gather the necessary tools and materials for the replacement process. Note that bulb sizes and specifications can vary between different model years and trim levels, so always consult your owner’s manual or dealership for the most accurate information.
Accessing the Instrument Cluster
The instrument cluster of a 2013 Honda Accord houses the speedometer, tachometer, and other important gauges. If the speedometer light bulb burns out, it’s essential to replace it to ensure optimal visibility and safe driving. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to access the instrument cluster and replace the speedometer light bulb:
Tools Required:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver (optional)
- Torque wrench
- Replacement speedometer light bulb
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Before attempting any electrical work, always disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent any electrical shorts or injuries.
Step 2: Remove the Steering Wheel
- Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the two screws holding the airbag module in place.
- Carefully disconnect the airbag module from the steering wheel and set it aside.
- Using an 18mm socket wrench, remove the center nut holding the steering wheel in place.
- Grip the steering wheel and pull it towards you to detach it from the steering column.
Step 3: Remove the Instrument Cluster Bezel
- Locate the two screws on the bottom of the instrument cluster bezel and remove them.
- Gently pry the bezel away from the dashboard, starting from the bottom.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors behind the bezel.
Step 4: Remove the Instrument Cluster
- Locate the four screws holding the instrument cluster in place and remove them.
- Carefully pull the instrument cluster towards you to disconnect it from the electrical harness.
Step 5: Replace the Speedometer Light Bulb
- Locate the speedometer bulb socket and twist it counterclockwise to remove it.
- Grip the old bulb and pull it straight out of the socket.
- Insert the new bulb into the socket and twist it clockwise to secure it.
Removing the Instrument Cluster
To access the speedometer light bulb, you must first remove the instrument cluster. This involves disassembling parts of your dashboard and steering column. Follow these steps carefully to prevent damage:
1. **Park your vehicle in a safe location and turn off the engine.** Allow the vehicle to cool down before commencing work.
2. **Disconnect the negative terminal of your vehicle’s battery.** This will prevent electrical shock while working on the instrument cluster.
3. **Remove the steering wheel.** Most Hondas have a central bolt that secures the steering wheel. Remove this bolt and pull the steering wheel straight towards you to detach it.
4. **Remove the lower dash panel.** There are several screws located along the bottom edge of the dash panel. Remove these screws and carefully detach the panel.
5. **Locate the instrument cluster bezel.** This is a plastic trim piece that surrounds the instrument cluster. There are several screws securing the bezel. Remove these screws and gently pry off the bezel.
6. **Remove the instrument cluster.** There are four screws securing the instrument cluster to the dashboard. Remove these screws and carefully pull the cluster towards you to detach it.
7. **Disconnect the electrical connectors** from the back of the instrument cluster.
Once the instrument cluster is removed, you can proceed to replace the speedometer light bulb.
Detaching the Speedometer from the Cluster
Materials Required:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flathead screwdriver | 1 |
| Replacement speedometer light bulb | 1 |
Step 4: Removing the Speedometer from the Cluster
- Using the flathead screwdriver, carefully pry open the plastic housing around the speedometer. This housing is typically held in place by several clips or tabs.
- Once the housing is open, locate the two Phillips-head screws that secure the speedometer to the cluster. Remove these screws.
- Gently pull the speedometer straight out of the cluster. Be mindful of any wires or connectors that may be attached to the back of the speedometer. Disconnect any such wires or connectors as necessary.
- With the speedometer removed, you will have access to the burnt-out light bulb. Remove the bulb by gently twisting it counterclockwise and pulling it out of its socket.
- Insert the replacement bulb into the socket by twisting it clockwise. Ensure that the bulb is securely in place.
- Reattach any wires or connectors to the back of the speedometer.
- Reinsert the speedometer into the cluster and secure it with the Phillips-head screws.
- Snap the plastic housing back into place, making sure that all clips or tabs are engaged properly.
Accessing the Speedometer Light Bulb
1. Remove the instrument cluster bezel: Locate the bezel around the instrument cluster and gently pull it straight towards you to release the retaining clips.
2. Disconnect the electrical connectors: There are two electrical connectors at the back of the bezel. Carefully disconnect both of them.
3. Remove the instrument cluster: With the connectors disconnected, pull the instrument cluster straight towards you to unclip it from the dashboard.
4. Locate the bulb holder: The speedometer light bulb is located in a holder behind the instrument cluster. Look for a small black or brown plastic socket.
5. Remove the bulb holder: Using a flathead screwdriver or a plastic trim tool, carefully pry the bulb holder out of its socket. Be gentle to avoid breaking the housing.
| Bulb Holder Type | Removal Method |
|---|---|
| Push-and-turn | Push in slightly and turn counterclockwise to release |
| Twist-and-pull | Turn the bulb holder clockwise, then pull it straight out |
| Clip-in | Use a trim tool to release the retaining clips and pull the holder straight out |
Once the bulb holder is removed, it will reveal the speedometer light bulb.
Replacing the Light Bulb
To replace the light bulb, follow these detailed steps:
1. Safety First
Before starting any work, park your Accord on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the negative terminal of your battery.
2. Locate the Instrument Cluster
Open the driver’s side door and locate the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel.
3. Remove the Instrument Cluster
Remove the two lower trim panels by pulling them towards you. Then, locate the four bolts holding the instrument cluster in place. Unscrew these bolts.
4. Detach the Instrument Cluster
Once the bolts are removed, carefully pull the instrument cluster towards you. Disconnect the electrical connectors at the back to detach the cluster completely.
5. Access the Speedometer Bulb
Flip the instrument cluster over and locate the speedometer bulb. It will be a small, round bulb with a plastic socket. The bulb is typically held in place by a white plastic clip.
6. Remove and Replace the Bulb
To remove the bulb, gently pry the white plastic clip away from the socket. Then, pull the bulb straight out of the socket. To install the new bulb, align the bulb with the socket and gently push it in until it snaps into place. Make sure the bulb is securely seated in the socket.
Ensure the new bulb is pushed in all the way to make proper contact and avoid flickering issues. Additionally, handle the bulb carefully to prevent fingerprints or smudges, as these can affect light transmission. If the bulb is not functioning properly after replacement, double-check that it is fully seated and free of any debris.
7. Reassemble the Instrument Cluster
Once the new bulb is installed, carefully reconnect the electrical connectors to the back of the instrument cluster. Then, reattach the cluster to the dashboard and secure it with the four bolts.
8. Reinstall the Trim Panels
Slide the two lower trim panels back into place to cover the instrument cluster.
9. Reconnect the Battery
Reconnect the negative terminal of your battery, and your Accord’s speedometer light bulb will be replaced.
Reassembling the Speedometer
1. Carefully align the new light bulb with the socket on the gauge cluster.
2. Insert the light bulb into the socket and twist it clockwise to secure it.
Inserting the Gauge Cluster
3. Lift the gauge cluster up and gently push it back into place.
4. Connect the electrical connector to the back of the gauge cluster.
Attaching the Screws
5. Replace the two screws that hold the gauge cluster in place.
6. Tighten the screws until they are snug but not overtightened.
Reattaching the Trim Panel
7. Line up the trim panel with the dashboard and insert the tabs into the slots. Make sure the panel is securely snapped into place at all four corners by applying even pressure around the perimeter.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| If the trim panel is not fully snapped into place, it may rattle or come loose. | |
| Double-checking the security of the trim panel by gently pulling on it after reattachment can prevent future issues. |
Replacing the Instrument Cluster
To access the rear of the instrument cluster, you will need to remove it from the dashboard. This can be done by removing the screws that hold it in place. Once the instrument cluster is removed, you will be able to access the bulbs that illuminate the speedometer.
8. Replace the Speedometer Light Bulbs
To replace the speedometer light bulbs, you will need to remove the old bulbs and insert the new bulbs. You can do this by following these steps:
- Locate the speedometer light bulbs. They are typically located on the back of the instrument cluster.
- Use a small screwdriver or your fingers to remove the old bulbs.
- Insert the new bulbs into the sockets.
- Make sure that the new bulbs are seated properly.
Once you have replaced the speedometer light bulbs, you can reassemble the instrument cluster and install it back into the dashboard.
Here is a table with the steps for replacing the speedometer light bulbs:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the speedometer light bulbs. |
| 2 | Remove the old bulbs. |
| 3 | Insert the new bulbs. |
| 4 | Make sure that the new bulbs are seated properly. |
| 5 | Reassemble the instrument cluster. |
| 6 | Install the instrument cluster back into the dashboard. |
Step 9: Resetting the Cluster Calibration
Calibration is crucial to ensure accurate speedometer readings. After bulb replacement, follow these steps to reset the cluster calibration:
a) Turn the Ignition On
Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position but do not start the engine.
b) Locate the Trip Meter Reset Button
On the left side of the instrument cluster, find the button labeled “TRIP” or “ODO/TRIP” (odometer/trip reset).
c) Press and Hold the Button
Press and hold the “TRIP” button for approximately 5 seconds, until the cluster enters calibration mode.
d) Observe the Indicator
A small indicator light on the instrument cluster will illuminate to indicate that calibration mode is activated.
e) Drive Slowly
Drive the vehicle slowly at a constant speed of approximately 20-30 mph for a few minutes.
f) Release the Button
After driving for a few minutes, release the “TRIP” button.
g) Check Indicator
The indicator light should turn off, indicating that the cluster calibration is complete.
h) Verify Accuracy
Take the vehicle for a short drive and check if the speedometer is reading accurately.
Calibration Table
| Calibration Speed | Duration |
|---|---|
| 20-30 mph | A few minutes of driving at a constant speed |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Dim or Flickering Lights
Verify if the light bulb is secure in its socket. A loose bulb can cause poor electrical contact, resulting in flickering or dim illumination. Tighten the bulb as needed.
2. Complete Darkness
– Fuse Issue: Locate the fuse box and inspect the fuses assigned to the instrument cluster. A blown fuse can prevent power from reaching the speedometer lights. Replace any blown fuses.
– Wiring Problem: Examine the wiring that connects to the speedometer assembly. Loose or damaged wires can disrupt the electrical circuit, causing a loss of illumination. Repair or replace any faulty wiring.
– Switch Failure: The dimmer switch or headlight switch can control the speedometer lights. Verify if these switches are functioning properly. Replacing a defective switch may restore lighting.
3. Incorrect Illumination
– Wrong Bulb Size: Ensure that the replacement bulb has the correct size and wattage. Using a bulb with incorrect specifications can cause it to fit poorly or produce insufficient brightness.
– Polarity Mismatch: If applicable, pay attention to the bulb’s polarity. Incorrect installation can hinder electrical contact and result in improper lighting. Align the bulb terminals with the corresponding terminals in the socket.
4. Other Issues
Consult a professional mechanic if the speedometer lights do not function despite troubleshooting these common issues. Additional factors, such as faulty circuitry or problems within the instrument cluster itself, may require specialized repair or replacement.
How To Change 2013 Honda Accord Speedometer Light Bulb
The speedometer light bulb in a 2013 Honda Accord is located behind the instrument cluster. To change the bulb, you will need to remove the instrument cluster from the dashboard.
Here are the steps on how to change the bulb:
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
- Remove the two screws that hold the instrument cluster in place.
- Carefully pull the instrument cluster out of the dashboard.
- Locate the speedometer light bulb. It is usually located behind the speedometer gauge.
- Gently twist the bulb counterclockwise to remove it.
- Insert the new bulb into the socket and twist it clockwise to secure it.
- Reinstall the instrument cluster into the dashboard.
- Tighten the two screws that hold the instrument cluster in place.
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
People Also Ask
How Often Should I Change My Speedometer Light Bulb?
The speedometer light bulb in a 2013 Honda Accord will typically last for several years. However, it is a good idea to change the bulb if it starts to dim or if it fails completely.
How Much Does it Cost to Change a Speedometer Light Bulb?
The cost to change a speedometer light bulb in a 2013 Honda Accord will vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, as well as the location of the bulb. However, the cost is typically between $20 and $50.
Can I Change the Speedometer Light Bulb Myself?
Yes, it is possible to change the speedometer light bulb in a 2013 Honda Accord yourself. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to take precautions to avoid damaging the instrument cluster.
