Instrument Cluster and Panel Illumination

Instrument Cluster and Panel Illumination

NOTE: The Smart Junction Box (SJB) is also known as the Generic Electronic Module (GEM).

The Instrument Cluster (IC) and panel illumination is used to provide backlighting to the dimmable and non-dimmable switches and control components.

For MKZ vehicles, if the exterior lamps are activated during daytime sunload conditions by the autolamp system, the message center, Audio Control Module (ACM), HVAC module and switch illumination remain at full intensity and do not dim from the instrument panel dimmer switch during this condition. If the vehicle travels under a bridge or a tunnel, the low level of ambient light causes the illumination level of the message center, ACM, HVAC module and switch to change to the level set by the instrument panel dimmer switch. The message center, ACM, HVAC module and switch illumination change back to full intensity when the intense ambient light is restored.

Dimmable Backlighting

The dimmable switches and components are illuminated when the parking lamps are on. The level of intensity is adjustable by rotating the instrument panel dimmer switch either up to increase intensity or down to decrease intensity. The dimmable switches and components consist of:

- Ambient lighting switch (if equipped)
- ACM
- Clock
- Luggage compartment lid release switch
- Door lock control switches (MKZ)
- Hazard/passenger air bag disable/traction control switch
- Headlamp switch
- HVAC module
- IC
- Instrument panel dimmer switch
- Memory set switch (if equipped)
- Message center switch
- SJB
- Steering wheel switches
- Transmission Range (TR) indicator
- Window control switches (MKZ)

Non-Dimmable Backlighting

The non-dimmable lighting switches and components are illuminated when the accessory delay relay (integrated into the SJB) is energized. The non-dimmable switches and components are illuminated at full lamp intensity. The non-dimmable lighting switches and components consist of:

- Cigar lighter (MKZ)
- Door lock control switches (Fusion, Milan)
- SJB
- Roof opening panel switch (if equipped)
- Window control switches (Fusion, Milan)