Tech tip: missing cluster digits
 

2002 'facelift' W210 (but will probably apply to others) ...

I had the VDO dash digital clock showing only some of it's digits ... when I took the cluster apart I found the flexi-ribbon from the host PCB to the LCD had changes in patina where it was stuck to the PCB. After mild scoring with a rounded screwdriver the missing segments returned, but then failed again shortly afterwards. After turning over the pink sponge clamping bar and re-assembling the missing segments returned for good.

Hope that helps,
Rod