Volkswagen Repair: jetta, dashboard light, start the clock


Question
1996 jetta upon start the clock & trip meter resets,and the dashboard light go on then of,no codes are set and seems to run ok,replaced battery had alternator checked etc,can you help.

Answer
Hi Bobby;
I think your instrument cluster needs to be replaced.  However, this is an expensive repair, and if there are no other problems, and you can live with it, you might be better off to just keep driving it this way.  If it becomes too annoying to deal with, be very careful with trying to cut corners to save costs.  A used cluster, or just another cluster from another car could create more problems that you don't have now.  Usually, changing other electrical components, like the ones you describe, shouldn't cause the "segment" failure such as you describe.  The best, most satisfying, yet most expensive repair will simply be to replace the old one with a new one.  Much of the expense is related to the electronic "adaption" of the new one to ensure it operates, as designed, in your specific vehicle.  I wish I had better news, but with the advent of computerized/control modules, built into smaller devices, it simply adds to the expense.  Good luck, Bobby.  I hope this helps.