How to Repair a Gauge Cluster

The gauge cluster is an important component of your vehicle's safety. The gauge cluster contains the various gauges of the vehicle like the odometer, speedometer and tachometer. If any of the gauges or the cluster itself begin to malfunction, there could be three possible issues: either the cluster fuse is blown, the cluster's wiring connector is loose or the gauge cluster itself has gone bad and requires replacing.

Things You'll Need

  • Fuse puller
  • Socket wrench
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • Open your vehicle's hood. Lift off the fuse block cover.

  • Use a fuse puller to remove the cluster fuse. Install a replacement fuse. Most vehicles use a 15A fuse for the cluster, but consult your vehicle's owner's manual to locate the fuse and to figure out the exact fuse to use as a replacement.

  • Reattach the fuse block cover and disconnect the battery negative cable using a socket wrench.

  • Open your vehicle's driver's door. Lower the steering wheel as far as it will go.

  • Remove the upper dash trim of your vehicle's gauge cluster, if necessary. Most vehicles have a plastic trim panel above the cluster held in by two screws or bolts, depending on your vehicle. Remove the screws or bolts and remove the plastic trim.

  • Remove the fasteners securing the cluster to your vehicle. These are traditionally screws, but they can be bolts or even clips. Once removed, pull the cluster out towards you. Reach behind it to locate the wiring connector. If it is loose, plug it in. If your cluster is still malfunctioning, this will require replacement.

  • Disconnect the cluster's wiring connector and remove the cluster from the vehicle. Install a replacement cluster and reattach the wiring connector. Reattach the cluster's fasteners and its upper dash trim panel.

  • Reconnect the battery of your vehicle and close the hood.