Symptoms of a bad instrument cluster
If you suspect your instrument cluster is faulty, let’s review some symptoms you should be aware of. By relating to these symptoms, you’ll confirm whether your instrument cluster has electrical or internal issues.
1. Unresponsive or Dead Gauges
You’re looking at the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, or temperature gauge and there’s nothing moving or changing about them.
Alternatively, the gauges might be acting crazy and moving with no sense.
2. Dim or Non-Functional Backlighting
The instrument cluster light might have become way weaker than it was before. The light dims, flickers, or fails to turn on, making it hard to see the display at night.
3. Warning Lights Malfunction
Warning lights (e.g., check engine, ABS, airbag) are constantly lit. In addition, during startup these lights typically activate — if they’re not activating when you start the car, they might be having issues. Alternatively, the warning lights might be flashing from time to time, resulting from issues with the instrument cluster.
4. Display Issues/Incorrect Readings
LCD or digital displays (odometer, trip counter, etc.) may be working fine, but they’re showing completely out-of-reality readings, or going inactive.
5. Random Power Loss
The entire cluster may intermittently turn off and on.
6. Burnt Smell or Electrical Short Symptoms
A burning plastic smell or other electrical signs (e.g., blown fuses) could indicate internal component failure.
7. No Response When Starting the Car
The cluster stays dark and doesn’t light up when starting the car.
8. Unusual Sounds
Clicking, buzzing, or whining noises may come from the cluster area, indicating electrical issues.
