I have a 2003 Ford Escort ZX2 which I purchased new. The entire time I've had the car, the panel on the floor-mounted transmission shifter has been unlit, meaning I can't see what gear I'm in at nightime, unless I switch on the cabin light. Is the panel supposed to be illuminated (like the instrument panel) when the headlamps are switched on? In other words, have I been driving all these years with a burned-out panel bulb?

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

Yes,, There's a bulb for the trans control selector..

 

Thanks for the reply and the info. Is it simple to replace the bulb, or would I be better off having my mechanic do it? My car experience is limited to checking fluids/tires and jump starting batteries, although I tinker with pinball machines a lot.