What Is Dome Override and Why Is It Malfunctioning? Plus Common Fixes

Never take your ride’s dome light for granted. Not only does it ensure the cabin is well-lit when you enter your vehicle, but it also lets you know when you have doors that are still open or not closed properly.

However, there are instances when this automatic feature becomes a hassle. For example, you want to keep the light open after closing your doors because you’re looking for something in your bag or glove compartment. To keep the dome light lit, you’ll need to use the dome override.

What Is Dome Override?

The dome override lets you control the dome lights manually, and you can activate it using the dome override button.

Dome lights are usually on the vehicle’s ceiling, usually in the middle of the front and back passenger seats. Some vehicles also have them attached to the door.

The car’s computer controls these lights, turning them on whenever a door is open.

Where Is the Dome Override Button Located?

The dome override button is usually on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. Some models have it on or below the infotainment cluster (or the radio).

It’s usually a small circular button that, depending on the vehicle, you either press or turn to control the dome light.

What Are the Signs of a Faulty Dome Override Button?

Something might be wrong with the dome override button when the dome lights stay on or off even after using the button.

Note that a malfunctioning override button isn’t always the culprit behind a faulty dome light. Electrical damage and bulb issues can cause the same problem.

Common Reasons Why the Dome Override Is Malfunctioning

The dome override could stop working due to the following issues:

Stuck Dome Override Button

Like your vehicle’s media buttons on its infotainment system, the dome override button could get stuck if you press it too hard or repeatedly. The stuck button usually causes the dome light to stay on or off, regardless of whether or not a door is open or closed.

Damaged or Stuck Door

The dome override button connects to the dome light switch, which is usually on the driver-side door. As such, a damaged or stuck door could affect its overall functionality.

A displaced pin or a hinge in the faulty door could be preventing it from closing properly, which leaves the dome light on.

How to Fix a Malfunctioning Dome Override

How to repair a faulty dome override depends on what’s causing the issue. Common fixes include adjusting the dome override button and replacing or repairing faulty car door(s).

Adjust the Override Button’s Position

Did the button get stuck after repeated use or using too much pressure when pressing the button? Carefully adjust the button to loosen, and return it to its original position.

After that, press the button to test it. You shouldn’t feel any resistance, and it should control the dome override button as usual. If the button is stuck due to irreparable damage, you might have to replace it.

Replace or Fix the Door

If the door is the issue, look for and remove anything that might be keeping the hinge from properly closing the door. This should turn off the dome light, as the car’s computer won’t signal that the door is still open.

If you don’t find any obstructions, then wiring issues within the door might be causing the problem. In this case, it’s better to take your car to the auto shop and have an expert take a look. Replacing a car door or repairing its wirings is a lot of work and is best left to mechanics.

Issues That Make It Seem Like the Dome Override Is Faulty

Some problems can make it seem like the override button is malfunctioning. Here are some of them and how to deal with each one.

Burnt Bulb

Of course, a burnt bulb won’t light up when you use the dome override button.

If you determine that the dome light bulb is the issue, then you’ll have to replace it. It’s a relatively easy task, usually requiring only a screwdriver to unbolt the casing of the dome and replace the bulb inside.

After replacing the bulb, check to see if it’s working by manually turning the dome light on.

Blown Fuses

Blown fuses affect the flow of electricity to the bulb. They limit the power of the dome lights, which could cause flickering, dimness, or outright not produce any light.

To fix this issue, you must first find the blown fuse. Use your owner’s manual to determine the fuses’ location in your ride, and check each one. Then, remove and replace the blown fuse.

Don’t forget to check the dome override’s functionality after replacing the bad fuse.

The Bottomline

The dome override button lets you turn the lights on or off as well as toggle the automatic dome light feature.

If you encounter symptoms of a malfunctioning dome override, look for visible issues you can easily fix. These include an obstruction that prevents a door from properly closing and a stuck dome override button.