What Is This Slot/Light in Rearview Mirror?

[NC2Stay]

I was working on my new '95 coupe today, trying to quiet some rattles. One was in the rearview mirror, and I was able to tighten the clear lamp lenses to solve the problem.

But, I noticed that there was a third light in the rearview mirror assembly. Its a diagonal slot, to the left of the right light and part of the same subassembly. It occupies the same position on the right light that the switch does on the left light. Its definitely a light, as there is a bulb assembly behind it. It didn't light on any switch or door position.

Anybody know what this is? Perhaps the bulb is burned out, but I will never know if I don't know how to use it! I couldn't find anything in the owner's manual.

Thanks, Bob

 

[1995 RedVette]

That is one of the courtesy lights. It will light when the doors are open or you flip the interior light intensity switch in the full on position along with the lights in the doors and behind the seats in the halo.

Brett

 

[NC2Stay]

That is one of the courtesy lights...

Brent, I am not sure. I don't mean the two big lights in the rearview mirror assembly, which I assume are the courtesy lights. I mean the narrow, diagonal slot NEXT to the righthand courtesy light, and in the same assembly. Why is it a narrow, diagnoal slot, right next to the normal rectangular light? It almost looks like a screwdriver slot, but there is a bulb behind it.

Bob

 

[KOPBET]

That bulb illuminates (dimly) the console at night when the lights are on. It is an easy bulb to change. I thought the owner's manual included info on that but then again I have a '96 so maybe not.

Check with your friendly neighborhood Chevy dealer for a replacement if you wish or if you want to wait a while I can check the service manual for a bulb number. I don't know how easy or hard they will be to find at a parts store because I have never looked for one.

You should be able to tell if the bulb is burned out by looking at it. It has a bayonet base so it just pushes in and pulls out.

BTW - Just gently pry the righthand courtesy lamp assy. out with a small screwdriver or fingernail to get access to the bulbs.

 

[jmccloud]

map light

That bulb is so dim that it may be OK and just not noticable. Turn the dash dimmer up (at night) then hold your hand on the gear shift. The light should just barely illuminate your hand. The light isn't very noticable on the black console.
Took me weeks to figure this out.

 

[nyernga]

It's to help you find the ashtray when flicking ashes. OR To make sure you don't take a sip out of the wrong side of the hot coffee cup.


Len

 

[NC2Stay]

Map Light

OK - well I guess that is what it is, then. Yes, I have already had it out, since I pried out both lights to tighten the lenses up to eliminate some rattles.

Thanks all.

Bob