Is It Hard To Replace An Instrument Cluster?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The instrument cluster is in the

dashboard

behind the steering wheel. You may need to take apart the dashboard to remove the instrument cluster. It’s an easy process. If you have the time for the removal, a plug-and-play replacement is a quick fix.

How much does it cost to replace instrument cluster?

The average cost for an Instrument Cluster Replacement is

between $792 and $812

but can vary from car to car.

Can you replace instrument cluster?

A broken or malfunctioning instrument or gauge cluster is not giving you the vital information you need about your vehicle. We’re happy to tell you that

you can replace your instrument cluster right at home

. It’s not as hard as it looks, and you’ll save a lot of money in labor.

Does changing instrument cluster change mileage?

So does changing an instrument cluster mean changing your mileage? The short answer is

no

. Replacing the instrument or gauge cluster won’t reset the mileage.

Can you put a different instrument cluster in a car?


It’s entirely possible

but takes some wiring skills and access to wiring diagrams for each cars.

How do I know if my instrument cluster is bad?

  1. Dim instrument cluster lights.
  2. The check engine light coming on sporadically or permanently. …
  3. Intermittent failure of the gauges.
  4. Inaccurate gauge readings. …
  5. Blinking lights.
  6. The lights glowing up or lighting up every now and then.

Can I drive my car without the instrument cluster?


Yes

, you can still start and run your vehicle without the instrument cluster.

Does a new instrument cluster need to be programmed?


The cluster does not need to be programmed

however you need a cluster from a supercharged car otherwise the display will show incorrect part fitted, also the connector on 1999 & 2000 cars are not the same.

Is changing gauge clusters illegal?


It’s not illegal to program the correct mileage

into a new cluster.

Do you have to program a new instrument cluster?

US Speedo said that ALL you have to do is

program miles / hours

and they would do that when they ship the new cluster. Dealerships said that in addition to programing the miles / hours, you have to program the new cluster with Tech 2 so that the new cluster can read BCM, PCM, ECM (bla bla bla).

How do you replace instrument cluster lights?

Next remove the instrument cluster bezel (plastic window) to access the cluster retaining screws. Tilt the cluster forward and disconnect the electrical connectors (Photo 2). Remove the cluster, turn it over and locate the bulb sockets. Remove the old bulbs and insert the new ones (Photo 3).

How do I reset my instrument cluster?

Push and release the

Sel/reset button button

3 times repeatedly. The instrument cluster begins its self-test. Each successive press of the Sel/reset button initiates a new cycling of all the gauges. To end, turn the ignition switch to OFF, or vehicle speed exceeds 1.5 mph.

What problems can a bad instrument cluster cause?

Signs of a bad instrument cluster include dim/flickering gauges, inaccurate or unreliable readings, all gauges dropping to zero while driving, and

an unworkable instrument cluster

. These error symptoms can result in your vehicle going out while driving, displays failing occasionally, or complete/intermittent failure.

Why is my cluster not working?

If the

fuses

check out okay, then check for power at the instrument cluster. If the instrument cluster has power, then check for ground. A bad ground connection can cause total failure or erratic readings. When all else fails, the instrument cluster itself may have to be replaced.

Will a bad instrument cluster drain battery?


A malfunctioning module may activate the instrument cluster when the vehicle is off

. This causes the instrument cluster to drain the battery.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.