E36 erratic instrument cluster

[cafin99]

I have a 318iS Coupe and my instrument panel is a bit mental. All the dials
seem to switch off then on again when I'm driving. Sometimes the pointers stick in unusual positions. Has anyone got any ideas?

many thanks.

 

[obi_waynne]

Have you checked for a bad earth? That can cause problems like that. Do all interior electrics go out at the same time. Is there an engine misfire or stutter?

 

[cafin99]

instrument cluster

No other probs with electrics or engine just a posessed instrument pannel.

 

[obi_waynne]

I still think it's a bad earth contact -but something inside the car.

Sometimes connections brake as they warm up and cool down. These can be a pig to track down. Often unplugging and replugging will fix the problem but you'll need to get behind the dashboard (Not sure how easy that is in a Beemer)!

Something like that is worth ringing the main dealer - ask to speak to a mechanic and get some suggestions from him - chances are that it happened before on another car!

 

[obi_waynne]

You had any luck with this issue yet? you've got us all curious!

 

[DimmaThanDim]

Hi cafin99. I used to run a BMW specialists in Andover. I have come across this problem on several occasions before. The fault is within the cluster which is unfortunately very difficult to repair as technically it is sealed unit. The easiest repair is to source a second hand unit from a scrappie or off the net. Be careful that the one you buy has the correct rev counter either 4cyl or 6cyl engine as you will either read half as high or half as low if you get the wrong one.

 

[obi_waynne]

Thank you for yet another helpful post from you Dimma, it's nice to have you along!