Chrysler Repair: No gauges work: 00 Cirrus, 2000 chrysler cirrus, chrysler cirrus

Question
Hi I just brought a used 2000 Chrysler Cirrus on 6/4/2007.  I had it for one week and the check engine light came on. Not wanting to take to a dealer (because I knew it would be expensive) I took it to a local guy referred by a friend.
So he had to order an  ECN (computer module). And we thought that the problem was fixed. However he told me that it appeared that before the dealer sold me the car someone tried to replace the old computer part with a used or refurbished and it gave it a Virus. So in the end he had to order another part. So in all he ordered a PCM COMPUTER and  Body Control module. So I just picked up his yesterday (friday).  Took it to inspection and it passed. However when I went home to park it and came out about 2 hours later the gages wouldn't work. Like the you couldn't see the mileage, how much gas i had, or how fast i was speeding.
So, could this be a softwar problem? I do remember the guy saying that he had to take it down to the dealership to get them to reinstall the software.
But once it was fix, do you know why it would do that again.?
thanks

Answer
Hi KK,
If the local guy has a good fault code reader he may be able to test both the cluster for its gauge function and the body computer input/output for its function. You might just have a bad plug/circuit board interface at the cluster or between the cluster and the body computer. Check the interface of pins 7 and 8 to the circuit board of the blue connector at the cluster, and verify that they are patent to pins 11 and 1 respectively at the 22-way plug from  the body controller, respectively.
You should also check fuses 7 and 11 under the dash. If one of those is blown, replace it. If it still blows let me know and I can tell you some measurements to make.
It could be a bad body computer, or something that didn't make good contact between the junction block (fuse box under the dash) and the body computer. Those two modulet  are interconnected back side-to-back side when installed, via internal contacts.
I am working from a '96 body diagnostic manual so I can't be certain I have the correct pin assignments for your newer vehichle. But the chances are it is applicable.
I don't think it would be a software problem if they did it right and it worked.
Roland