Volvo Repair: Speedometer Cluster, volvo specialist, gauge cluster

Question
My 2000 S80s cluster has given out, with the speedometer itself no longer working.

I have located an entire guage cluster on ebay for a 2001, but none for the 2000. Will a 2000 cluster work without any problems?

Thanks
John

Answer
Neither will work.  The problem is that with that model the gauge cluster has a computer in it.  All the computers in that car will not work without software and once a module is programmed, it is encoded with the VIN of that vehicle.  It cannot be reprogrammed either.  It will detect the wrong VIN and refuse to work.  It's a theft prevention feature to put chop shops out of business.  You'll have to install a new one and then only a dealer (or volvo specialist with dealer equipment) can program it correctly.  The bulbs in those things have been known to go bad and the speedo may not be working because of a broken speed sensor on the car so make sure you know where the fault is before replacing the cluster because its gonna be expensive.  

James