I have 1996 C280. Just recently the instrument cluster gauges have begun to operate intermitently. Sometimes when I turn the key to position 2 they will kick up, other times they lie dead and the speedometer needle will quiver just off the peg. I have also lost the two lights behind the speedometer.
Can you diagnose the gauge problem and tell me if the lights can be replaced by me or is it a job for my mechanic.
Thanks
Steve Dale

I know the 202 model year 1997 was totally remapped. However, if I am not mistaken... your 96 C280 wiring would be very similar to my (past) 95 C280. Check the fuse box, and make sure the instrument cluster fuse is in properly... if the speedometer, fuel gauge, and rpm gauge aren't operating, but the coolant temp IS still on, then I would surely check the fuse. OR perhaps it could that the needles are sticking. As for the back lighting.... try smacking the dash board... loose connections are common. If you're lucky, the lights will come right on.

Hope I made sense! best of luck

__________________
2006 E350 w/ 155k miles (Daily Driver)

Previous:
1993 300E 3.2L Sedan w/ close to about 300k miles
2003 E500 Brilliant Silver (Had 217k miles when totalled!)
1989 300E with 289,000 miles (had for <1 yr while in HI)
03 CLK 500 cabrio (Mom's)
2006 C230k (Dad's)
1999 S420 (Mom's/Dad's)
2000 C230k Sport sedans
2001 CLK320 Cabrio (Mom's)
1995 C280 My First Mercedes-Benz... (155k miles. EXCEPTIONAL AUTOMOBILE. Was Very hard to let go of!)

yes, it made sense

__________________
2006 E350 w/ 155k miles (Daily Driver)

Previous:
1993 300E 3.2L Sedan w/ close to about 300k miles
2003 E500 Brilliant Silver (Had 217k miles when totalled!)
1989 300E with 289,000 miles (had for <1 yr while in HI)
03 CLK 500 cabrio (Mom's)
2006 C230k (Dad's)
1999 S420 (Mom's/Dad's)
2000 C230k Sport sedans
2001 CLK320 Cabrio (Mom's)
1995 C280 My First Mercedes-Benz... (155k miles. EXCEPTIONAL AUTOMOBILE. Was Very hard to let go of!)