Repair And Fix it

home» an » change » cluster » how » instrument » to » How to Change an Instrument Cluster

---

How to Change an Instrument Cluster

If you need to change the instrument cluster on your vehicle, consider purchasing or borrowing a Haynes Repair Manual. The Haynes Publishing group offers a manual for just about every vehicle, and they can be costly, but they contain the instructions you will need. The instrument cluster is part of the dashboard and the removal process is different depending on the make and model of a vehicle. You may have to move and remove other components just to get to the cluster. If you are going to attempt this task, work slowly and take detailed notes as you remove each part. This will help ease the reinstallation process.

Instructions

1

Ensure that you ordered the correct instrument cluster by the year, make, model and style of vehicle. Parts may be different for coupes, sedans, or hatchbacks of the same model.

2

Consult your owners manual as to how to disable your air bags. For many cars, this involves pointing both front tires forward and removing the negative cable from the vehicles battery. Wait a couple of minutes before continuing the task. You should allow the residual power within the vehicle to expire. Defer to the disarming process specific to your vehicle.

3

Look at your steering wheel. If it is adjustable, move it to its lowest setting.

4

Examine the instrument cluster bezel; this is the molded plastic formed around the cluster. Also, examine the trim panels around them. This may include the coverings around the steering wheel, the panel just below the instrument cluster, and some of the panels underneath the dash. You need to figure out how all the panels fit together and which panel should be removed first.

5

Remove the first panel. In many cases, this can either be the steering wheel shaft cover or even some of the lower kick panels beneath the dash. Look for screws first, and if you find them, remove them. If you do not find any, insert a flat-head screwdriver wrapped in tape at the edge of the panel; the tape is used to avert scratching the panel. Pry up the panel slowly and carefully. Many panels are held in place by retaining clips and can be popped loose.

6

Remove the next component; in many cases, this is the trim panel directly beneath the instrument cluster.

7

Press the instrument cluster bezel with both hands. Some bezels can be disengaged from their retaining clips in this manner. Other bezels can be pulled off with your hands and some can be pried off. Remove the bezel.

8

Search for screws in the instrument cluster. They will be along the bottom, top and sides of the cluster. Remove them with a screwdriver and the appropriate screw tip.

9

Push the cluster inward in case it is held in place by additional retaining clips.

10

Work your fingers around the edges of the cluster and slowly pull forward. If the cluster does not budge, you probably missed a screw. Gently pull the cluster toward you. Once it is out of the dash, detach all wiring connectors.

11

Attach all the wiring connectors to the new instrument cluster and place it back into your dashboard. Refer to notes you took while removing the cluster and follow that process in reverse.