Random Question about light attached to shifter in AT models

[acavallo17]

So, as we were replacing bulbs and other trim pieces, we noticed the bulb located on the automatic trans shifter. We just replaced it and started to redo the leather boot but since it is so old and dry, we opted to try to add some leather conditioner to soften it up and try again at another time. but as we drove it at night, we could now see the light working as the boot wasn't attached. but as we looked at it more, we weren't sure the light would light anything up as it would be under the boot and not even close to where the shift indicator markings are on the trim piece. also not sure if the indicator markings are even transparent and just screen printed on the trim piece. So, what is the light actually for? Are we missing something obvious? thanks in advance

[kdjones2000]

The only light in that area on manual cars is for the ashtray - maybe that is what yours if for as well, and someone just put it in the shifter?

[acavallo17]

didn't think about that about the manual cars! i just checked last night.. there is a holder for the light so it moves with the shifter but the shift indicator markings aren't transparent... then the ashtray doesn't have anything to hold a light either. i do have an extra shift indicator trim section. side investigation while there are more pressing needs lol i'm just glad a light is working lol

[originalowner]

Shoot a picture of the light holder. It would be interesting to see.

[acavallo17]

Originally Posted by originalowner

Shoot a picture of the light holder. It would be interesting to see.

will do! i'll remove the trim showing it is solid, too

[acavallo17]

here are the pics of the automatic trans trim and where the light is. you can see how close the light is to the shifter and there is no way light is getting to the indicators. they are also screen printed on solid material. ideas?

[originalowner]

Looks like they designed it to light up whatever selection it was in. Must have decided it wasn't worth it. Speculating, I imagine the first year or two had it, then they were swamped with complaints because the shifter had to be adjusted perfectly for it to align with the indicator. So they essentially blacked it out, and didn't bother to remove the light.

[acavallo17]

Originally Posted by originalowner

Looks like they designed it to light up whatever selection it was in. Must have decided it wasn't worth it. Speculating, I imagine the first year or two had it, then they were swamped with complaints because the shifter had to be adjusted perfectly for it to align with the indicator. So they essentially blacked it out, and didn't bother to remove the light.

i think you are right about that scenario lol looks like i have an extra bulb for the console area now, maybe once we get a radio in place it will be worth it to make it more of a splash light under the dash. time to think about more important issues on the car!