How do I set the odometer reading on my C230's new cluster?
 

I'm about to change out the instrument cluster on my 1999 C230 (the existing cluster has broken LCD segments). But, before I do this, does anyone know, how do I set the odometer reading on the replacement cluster to the right numbers?

I checked with a dealer and they say it can only be done by the factory. He said they have to set a serial number and the odometer reading. I guess the serial number comes from another computer on the car. And, the only way they can do all this is if I buy the cluster from them. Thanks for the help,
DonB

I don't know the technicals about it, but whenever I order a cluster, I have to send the mileage on the car and they code it to the new cluster before they send it.

I did hear the other day that we are now supposed to be able to keep new cluster in stock- some new procedure that lets us code the mleage to the clusters on the spot. Your dealer should already know about this and should be able to do it for you.

OK, so maybe it's just a matter of finding a dealer that is familiar with the proceedure, which would be the simplest answer. I'll start looking tommorrrow.

In the meantime, I've been looking at the OBD2 scan tools. I have the one from

http://www.obd-2.com/index.html

I may be able to write the values with this tool, but I haven't figured out which ones yet. Actually, I'm still experimenting with figuring out how to read the values, which could take a while (and might be a tricky thing to do anyhow). Thanks for the advice,

DonB

I spoke with several dealers and none seem to know about the new proceedure. Does anyone know what it's called?

Please give a report on this, preferably in a new thread. I've been wanting such a tool for some time.