1999 W210 E300 Instrument Display - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 08-09-2006, 11:45 AM

The display for the mileage, temp, etc. on my E300 is getting brighter on the right hand side and dimmer on the left hand side.
1. Has this happened to anyone?
2. Did you have the display replaced?
3. Can you replace the display yourself?
4. Would much does it cost?

RLGDiesel · #2 08-09-2006, 12:30 PM

On my uncle's 1997 E420 and grandfather's 2001 E320, the time and temperature display were unreadable. Upon taking the vehicle to the dealership, they were quoted $600+ to remove the cluster and replace a "bulb." Both decided it was not worth the money and left the display alone. I also have my temperature display fading on my 1999 E320 4M wagon. I don't feel comfortable removing the cluster, so I'll just live without the temperature display. Unless you cannot read the odometer or vital information, it's not worth having repaired at the dealership. However, I think the "bulb replacement" process would be easy, if you know about the cluster removal. Just my two cents.

Matt L · #3 08-09-2006, 01:03 PM

The cluster is very easy to remove from this car. Search online here and you'll find many examples of instructions for doing this.

You need a pair of special tools, but these can be made out of a wire coat-hanger. It's a ten minute job to replace the bulbs, and won't cost $600.

I suspect you needed the LCD itself replaced, and not simply the bulbs.

uberwgn · #4 08-09-2006, 01:05 PM

the condition OP is asking about doesn't sound like the infamous "disappearing segments" we've all seen. It sounds like part of the display is dimmed.

IMO, these are not small repairs based upon the research others have done as it is not a matter of replacing a bulb. The repair is far more complicated for the newer cars.

#5 08-09-2006, 03:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Matt L

I suspect you needed the LCD itself replaced, and not simply the bulbs.

I am 99% confident that it is the LCD itself. I did not know if anyone has replaced the LCD unit.

Gilly · #6 08-09-2006, 08:32 PM

If the segments are OK (numbers all readable) but just getting dim on one side, then I am 100% sure this is JUST a bulb concern. The display is backlit LCD, it uses 3 bulbs, left, right and center, so the dim side just needs the bulb. I recommend doing all 3 at once.
PS: There are 3 clear bulbs and 3 red ones for when the display shows a red warning message, just do the 3 clear ones, the red ones are seldom used and don't think I've ever replaced a single one. Clear ones are for the normal amber color.
Gilly