Hi all-
Two questions:

I have an '03 outback wagon and a couple of dashboard lights are out, so at night I can't read parts of the instrument panel - like the speedometer and the fuel gauge. Is this a DIY fix, or should it be done at the dealer? If it's a DIY, any hints on how to access the lights?

Also, the external mirror on the driver's side whistles when I drive on the highway. I had the dealership look at it during a service check, and it fixed it temporarily, but it's back. Any idea how to fix it?

Thanks in advance-
Marybeth
'03 Outback Wagon, 55k

 

To replace the bulbs the cluster has to be removed. This is not terribly difficult if you have tools and some mechanical ability, but if you don't a shop can do it easily.
As for the mirror, this is a common problem but the noise is usually not observed until very high speed (>100 MPH). If you're hearing it at lower speeds it could be something else. One thing you can check is to fold back the mirror and look for a sticker in the area where it folds, this has been reported as a source of the noise. If you find one remove it.

 

The most common cause of that problem is the gussett, or rubber molding (black piece in shape of a triangle) that the mirror sits on. Also, I can also be that weatherstrip which runs from the a pilar all the way back to the c pilar.

 

Thanks for your input - I'll check the mirror, and have the shop do the dashboard lights.