Dashboard Dead

[Nick Potter]

I hope someone can help me out on this:- the car starts but the whole of the dashboard is dead, none of the gauges e.g. tach, fuel, speedometer etc move, also, the dash warning lights do not come on either. The engine starts and the indicators work on the outside but there is no 'clicking' sound from the dash either.

I can only assume that is is some kind of fuse problem but if anyone has any idea of what specifically could be the culprit I'd be very grateful.

Many thanks - Nick

 

[Frontstep]

I think there is a problem with dead cluster on those, actronics fix them but don't rely on this, there are a few other steps and there might be a fuse to start with.

 

[SH0X]

Wow never heard of this one

But had a quick search and seems its common on some models inc w209 clk

Ultimate fix is dash specialists as posted above or bba remain those kind of places (they did a tt dash for me)

But some people are saying try the spare key , change batteries in fobs (not sure why that would do it ) disconnect battery 24 hours, charge battery

Seems like an odd electrical gremlin

some say it just came back from the dead randomly!

 

[LostKiwi]

If you're handy it may be worth pulling it apart and looking for dry joints perhaps?

 

[Nick Potter]

I'm happy to say that this is now resolved.

My local independent garage removed the binnacle and posted it off to Cartronix (www.cartronix.co.uk) in Waterlooville, Hants on Tuesday evening. The repaired unit was back this morning and fitted - all working correctly. I'm afraid I don't know what was repaired/replaced but the total cost was £160.

I hope this information will be of some use if you come across something similar.

Cheers - Nick