i have a 1998 renault epsace and have numurous problems with the light cluster but fortunately it is simple to access the panel.
remove both speaker covers at each side of the dash and unscrew the 3 screws securing the speakers in place, once they have been undone carefully remove the speakers and unplug.
once the speakers are gone the top part of the dash should simply pull away exposing the light cluster. when i did this to mine i discovered that the power is transfered to the bulbs via a printed curcuit board which had become damaged and wasn't distributing the charge and therefore not eluminating the bulbs.
hope that helps
Garry
September 2008