C220 Instrument Cluster

[lsl]

In order to troubleshoot a problem, I want to pull out the instrument cluster. I was able to pull it out loose using two coat hangers. Now the steering wheel is in the way. Is it necessary to remove the steering wheel to take the cluster out? If so, is there any precaution that must be taken for the airbag? Should I play safe and disconnect the battery first?

 

[BlackC55]

No need to remove the steering wheel. Just move the cluster to one side.

 

[lsl]

Is it normal that it is very very tight, and that I have to bend the glareshield a bit? Are the cables long enough to sustain moving the cluster out or must they be disconnected first?

 

[jberks]

Going by the 210, key out (to avoid SRS issues), disconnect the wiring which will allow the bottom of the cluster to come out so it's at an angle (so the cluster is facing up at 45 degrees). It should then slide out behind the wheel. It's tight but not so much that you need to bend anything or scrape it - you should have a few mm leway.

 

[anyweb]

make sure the key is in the ignition (to give SOME play in the steering wheel, ie: that it's not locked), BUT make SURE that there is NO power to the car/instrument panel as when you remove the instrument panel (by disconnecting the two clamps) if power is on, then when you reconnect it, you'll have your SRS (airbag) warnings lit, meaning trip to the dealers)

you can safely wiggle the cluster out over and back on the steering wheel, i've done it, it works just fine, and yes it's tight this way.

cheers
anyweb

 

[lsl]

Worked. Thanks, LS.