what could cause the buttons to stop working and lighting up but its still plugged in at the botom. do they go bad?? help plz

 

Blown fuse?

 

Is your airbag light on too? This was my problem: https://ls1tech.com/forums/wiring-stereo-electronics/602011-air-bag-light-steering-wheel-controls-not-working.html

 

the fuses are ok and the airbag light is on

 

Did you test the 1-amp steering wheel control fuse? Or did you just visually inspect it? I can't tell you how many times we've had somebody say the fuse was okay after looking at it but it was really blown. Always either test or replace with a known good fuse.

The switches almost never wear out (at least not all at once) so the fuse is the most likely culprit. If not then it could be a connection someplace or the contact ring in the steering column. Does your horn still work (it uses the same contact ring)?