You drive your 2013 Honda Accord every day, but suddenly, you notice something strange, your speedometer light isn’t working. That tiny bulb may not seem like a big deal, but it helps you see your speed clearly while driving at night. If it goes out, it can be annoying and even dangerous. The good news? You can fix it yourself. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to change the speedometer light bulb in a 2013 Honda Accord in the simplest way possible, step by step.
Why Did My 2013 Honda Accord Speedometer Light Bulb Burn Out?
There are a few reasons why your speedometer light bulb might stop working, and it’s helpful to know them before you start the replacement process. When you understand why it happened, you can take better care of your dashboard lights in the future and avoid the same issue again.
Age and Wear Over Time
Like any light bulb, the one behind your speedometer has a certain lifespan. These small bulbs are made to last many years, but they are not made to last forever. Over time, the heat inside your car’s dashboard and the constant use can wear them out. If your Accord is from 2013 and you’ve never changed the bulbs before, it's very likely they are just old and finally burned out.
Vibration from Driving
Every time you drive, your car goes over bumps, turns, and other road conditions. All of that causes tiny vibrations inside the dashboard. These small shakes can loosen or weaken the bulb over time. It’s not something you can see happening, but after years of driving, it can cause the bulb to fail.
Electrical Problems
Sometimes, the problem isn’t just the bulb. It could be a small electrical issue. Maybe the socket is loose, or there’s a poor connection somewhere behind the dashboard. In rare cases, the wiring could be faulty or damaged. But don’t worry, most of the time, it's just the bulb itself that needs to be changed.
Signs the Bulb Is Burned Out
How do you know it's really the bulb that went out? The most common sign is that the speedometer area is dark when your headlights are on. If all the other dashboard lights are working but one part is not lit up, that likely means a bulb is burned out behind that part. If the whole dashboard is dark, it could be a fuse or a wiring issue.
Test It at Night
The easiest way to check is to turn on your car at night. Look at your dashboard. Is everything bright and clear? Can you see your speed easily? If the speed area looks dim or totally dark, it's time to replace the bulb. Remember, it's important to have a working speedometer light so you can safely drive in the dark.
Once you understand the reasons and signs, you’re ready to move on to the actual fix. Don't worry, it may seem tricky, but with patience and simple tools, you can do it yourself.
What Tools and Parts Do I Need for Changing the Speedometer Light Bulb?
Before you start pulling apart anything, it's very important to gather all the tools and parts you need. This will make the process much smoother and save you time. You don't want to get halfway through the job and realize you're missing something important.
List of Tools
You don't need fancy tools for this job, but there are a few things you will need:
- A Phillips-head screwdriver (medium size)
- A flat-head screwdriver or plastic trim tool
- A flashlight or headlamp (to see inside dark areas)
- A pair of gloves (optional, for cleaner hands)
- A small tray or bowl to hold screws
- New replacement speedometer light bulbs
What Kind of Bulbs Should You Get?
For the 2013 Honda Accord, the most common speedometer light bulbs are called T5 wedge bulbs. But you should double-check your owner’s manual to be sure. You can find these bulbs at any auto parts store or online. You may also see LED versions. These last longer and are a little brighter, but make sure they fit the same socket.
Should You Replace All Bulbs?
This is a great question. If one bulb has burned out, the others are probably close to the end of their life too. Since you'll already have the dashboard open, it's smart to replace all the speedometer bulbs at the same time. That way, you won't have to go through all this again soon.
Where to Buy the Bulbs
You can buy these bulbs in many places. Try your local auto parts store like AutoZone, O’Reilly, or Advance Auto Parts. Or, you can go online to websites like Amazon or RockAuto. Always read the reviews and check that the bulbs are the right size and type for your Honda Accord.
Test the New Bulbs Before Final Assembly
This is a little trick that can save you from doing the job twice. Once you install the new bulbs and plug everything back in, turn on your headlights to make sure the new bulbs light up. If everything looks good, you can finish putting your dashboard back together.
Getting the right tools and bulbs is the most important first step. Once everything is ready, you can start the real work, removing the dashboard and changing the bulbs.
How Do I Remove the Dashboard and Replace the Bulbs?
Now we get into the most hands-on part of the job. This is where you carefully take apart your dashboard and swap out the old bulbs with new ones. Take your time with this step. Don't rush. Even though it may feel a little scary to take apart your car, it's totally doable if you follow each step closely.
Step 1: Turn Off the Car and Disconnect the Battery
Before you do anything, make sure the car is off. Then, go under the hood and disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will stop any electrical shocks or short circuits. It also helps keep your airbag system safe while you're working near the dashboard.
Step 2: Remove the Plastic Trim Around the Dashboard
Use your flat-head screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pop off the plastic trim around the dashboard cluster. This part is usually clipped in place. Gently work your way around the edges. Take your time. You don't want to crack or break the trim.
Once it's loose, slowly pull it forward and set it aside. There may be some wires attached to buttons on the trim (like traction control or eco mode). If so, carefully unplug them and place the trim in a safe place.
Step 3: Unscrew the Instrument Cluster
Now you should see a few screws holding the instrument cluster in place. Use your Phillips screwdriver to remove them. There are usually 3 or 4 screws, 2 at the top and 2 at the bottom. Put the screws in a small tray so you don't lose them.
Once the screws are out, you can gently pull the cluster forward. It may be a tight fit, so wiggle it a little side to side as you pull. Be careful not to yank it too hard.
Step 4: Disconnect the Wiring Harness
Behind the cluster, there are one or two wiring plugs. These give power to the gauges and lights. Press the release tab and gently pull the plugs out. Now, the whole instrument cluster should be free. Place it on a soft towel so it doesn't get scratched.
Step 5: Locate and Remove the Bulbs
Turn the cluster over and look at the back. You'll see several small twist-in bulbs. These are the speedometer lights. Carefully twist them out using your fingers. Some may be tighter than others, so use a glove if it helps with grip.
Once you remove them, compare the new bulbs to the old ones. They should match in size and shape. If they do, insert the new bulbs by twisting them in gently until they're snug.
Step 6: Reconnect and Test
Before you put everything back, reconnect the wiring harness and turn on your headlights. Check that all the bulbs light up. If one doesn't, check that it's seated properly. If everything works, you can now reassemble the dashboard.
Step 7: Reassemble the Dashboard
Reverse the steps you took earlier. Slide the cluster back in, screw it down, and reconnect any button wires. Snap the plastic trim back into place. Reconnect the battery terminal, start the car, and admire your work. Your speedometer should now be glowing brightly.
This part may seem long, but it's really just a few careful steps. Just be slow, gentle, and organized.
What Tips Can Help Me Avoid Problems While Replacing the Bulbs?
Now that you know how to do the job, here are some helpful tips to make sure everything goes smoothly. These tips can save you time, prevent mistakes, and help you feel more confident during the process.
Take Pictures Before You Start
One great trick is to take a few pictures of your dashboard before and during the process. Take one before you remove the trim, and more after you remove the screws and wires. These photos can help you remember where everything goes when it’s time to put things back together.
Label Your Screws and Parts
You may want to use small sticky notes or sandwich bags to label the screws and parts you remove. For example, write "Top Screws" or "Trim Screws" on a baggie and keep each set separate. This helps you stay organized and avoid mixing up screws.
Don't Force Anything
If a piece isn't coming loose, stop and look closer. There may be a hidden clip or screw. Never force a part, or you could break it. Take your time and gently work it loose.
Use Gloves for a Cleaner Job
Wearing gloves keeps your hands clean and helps avoid fingerprints on your dashboard parts. It also gives you better grip when handling small bulbs.
Check All Bulbs Before Reassembly
Always test the bulbs before closing up the dashboard. Nothing is worse than putting everything back and finding out one bulb is still dark.
Watch a Video Tutorial (Optional)
Some people like to see how things work visually. You can search for a video tutorial online using terms like "2013 Honda Accord speedometer light bulb replacement." Just make sure the video matches your car model and trim level.
Ask for Help if Needed
If you feel stuck or unsure, it's okay to ask a friend or even visit a mechanic. But chances are, with patience and careful steps, you can do it yourself.
These tips help make your repair experience much better. Fixing a light bulb may seem small, but doing it right makes a big difference.
I hope this guide helped you fix your speedometer light with confidence and ease. Drive safely, and enjoy your brighter dashboard every time you hit the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it dangerous to drive with a burned-out speedometer light bulb?
Yes, it can be dangerous, especially at night. When your speedometer light is out, you can’t easily see how fast you’re going. That can lead to speeding without knowing it, or driving too slow and holding up traffic. If you get pulled over, you may not be able to show your speed clearly. Also, it might be a sign that other dashboard lights could fail soon too. It’s always best to fix a dashboard light bulb as soon as you notice it’s out. Driving with good visibility on your dashboard helps you stay aware, safe, and in control of your car.
Can I change the speedometer light bulb without removing the entire dashboard?
You don't need to remove the entire dashboard, but you do have to remove the instrument cluster. That means taking off the trim around the speedometer, unscrewing the cluster, and pulling it out just enough to reach the back. It may sound like a big job, but it's actually something most car owners can do with simple tools and a little time. You won't have to take apart the radio, air vents, or anything else. Just work around the cluster area. With patience, it's very doable without professional help.
Do I need any special tools to change the speedometer bulb?
No, you don't need any special tools. You only need a few basic ones like a Phillips screwdriver, a flat-head screwdriver or trim tool, and a flashlight. These are tools many people already have at home. If you want to make it easier, a plastic trim tool is better than a metal screwdriver for removing the dashboard trim. It helps avoid scratches. Some people also like to use gloves to keep their hands clean. But overall, you don't need anything fancy. This is a simple DIY job.
Is it better to use LED bulbs for the speedometer?
LED bulbs are a popular choice because they last much longer than regular bulbs and are usually brighter. Many people switch to LED when replacing their dashboard lights. However, you need to make sure the LED bulb is the correct size and fits the socket. Also, some LED bulbs may not work well with the dimmer switch in your car, so choose ones that are made for dashboards. If you're unsure, ask at an auto parts store or look for LED bulbs made for the 2013 Honda Accord. If you want brighter lights and longer life, LED is a great option.
Can a bad fuse cause the speedometer light to go out?
Yes, in some cases, a bad fuse can cause the dashboard or speedometer lights to stop working. If none of the dashboard lights turn on, it could be a fuse. You can check the fuse box under the dashboard or in the engine bay. Use the car's manual to find the right fuse for the dashboard lights. Pull it out and look to see if it's blown. If it is, replace it with the same type and size. But if only one small section is dark, like just the speedometer, it's probably just a burned-out bulb.
Do I need to reset anything after changing the bulb?
No, you don't need to reset anything in your car after changing a speedometer light bulb. The dashboard lights are basic electrical parts, and once you plug in the new bulb, they will work right away. There's no need to reset the computer or do any kind of programming. Just reconnect the battery and check that everything works. If the speedometer or other gauges seem off after putting the cluster back in, double-check the wiring connections. But in most cases, it's a simple plug-and-play process.
Can I drive during the day if my speedometer light is out?
Yes, you can still drive during the day if the speedometer light is out, because daylight makes the numbers easy to see. But it's not a good long-term solution. The problem will still be there at night, and you may forget and drive in the dark without being able to see your speed. Also, the burned-out bulb might make your car look less maintained, which could affect resale value or inspection. It's best to fix it as soon as you can, even if it's not urgent during the daytime.
Is it okay to replace only one speedometer light bulb?
Yes, you can replace just one bulb if only one is burned out. But many people choose to replace all the bulbs at the same time, since they are usually the same age and will likely burn out soon too. If you already took out the cluster and did all the hard work, replacing all the bulbs means you won't have to do it again anytime soon. It saves time in the long run. But if you’re short on budget or only one bulb is out, it’s okay to just replace that one for now.
