Like most everyone, I have the typical pixel issues in my instrument cluster displays. I found an instrument cluster that I want to get so I can just swap it out. My question is, if I do this, are there going to be issues with anything else? I did a swap like this in a mustang and it messed up the PATS anti-theft system, and the car wouldn't start. Are there going to be some issues like this?? Does anyone know??
Your odometer reading will be out of sync with the various other odometer readings stored outside of the cluster.
Have you pulled your cluster yet? If so, look at the printed circuits that run from the board to the LCDs. The last one I saw with "bad pixels on the LCD" was caused by the printed circuits having cracks. You could try replacing the printed circuits with wire.
So is that the only issue I should have?? The odometer readings are almost the same so that really isnt an issue for me. Actually the one that I am getting as the replacement has a few more miles on it than my original. There aren't going to be any computer security issues or anything?? With the Mustang the only way to get things to work was to have the whole computer reprogrammed to accept the PATS info from the original ignition and key, otherwise the car wouldn't start. I just didn't want to spend the money on another cluster if it wasn't going to solve my problems, without creating more.
Marcus,
I may have to break out the iron w/electronics soldier and a fine tip and give this a college try. If there is potential, I will be mindful of a DIY. I have an '03 clusterf**k and this MB manuf. defect is pissing me off........prolly the same sloppy shit that operates my convertible top. I wonder if I can jump the printed circuit disconnect across the surface soldier points???? Regardless, I will investigate due to curiosity.........
Last edited by clk430convert01 : 01-24-2008 at 08:10 PM.
Abandoned the self-LCD pixel repair after a mis-calibrating one of the 5 precision motors which drive the VDO gauges trying to slide one off to get to the crappy german copper LCD wires.
Shipped my cluster to 4mercedes.com for repair of time, temp and gear LCD displays about 10 days ago(shipping dept forgot to ship it out after being fixed!) and received it back today. Shop did a good job and all gauges are now working perfectly and I can finally see what friggen gear i'm in! A well spent $250. I recommend 4mercedes.com just keep on them so they dont forget about your cluster!
Linear Mode
