Troubleshoot Speedometer Light Bulb

[RocketGirl]

2007 Virago 250cc
15 months olds
4,500+ miles

I checked my service manual and couldn't find how to troubleshoot the light bulb in my speedometer. I had to look up a parts diagram to even know how many and what type of bulb might be in there.

I was riding home the other night about 10:30pm and turned onto a not so well lit road through a residential area when I realized that I couldn't see how fast I was going.

Has anyone had to replace the bulb in their meter? Do I run the risk of messing up the meter settings or calibration by getting to the bulb? I think I can post the parts diagram for this if anyone wants to see it. I didn't have any luck searching on the internet regarding this topic. Thanks in advance.

[Toyuzu]

A lightbulb is a pretty simple repair. Most likely, the bulb is just burrned out. Replacing it will not effect your gauge. Just trace the wires going into the speedo, and there should be something there you can unscrew or pull loose to get to the bulb. Once you get it out, save it and take it in to the parts store so you can match it with the correct replacement. Your service manual should have the part number somewhere as well.

If you change the bulb and it still doesn't work, then there might be a loose wire somewhere. You can trace the wires, and often it's easy enough to figure out where the problem is.

On the Virago, I believe the only thing electrical is the light itself. The speedo is mechanical and operates off a cable that goes into the bottom of the gauge.

Feel free to ask any more questions, and have fun! You'll enjoy your bike even more once you successfully make a few repairs on it.