Problem after replacing the instrument cluster - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Texholdem · #1 03-17-2008, 01:43 AM

Because my instrument cluster (IC) has some defective pixels I replaced it with an used one.
The procedure was painless, just pull out the instrument cluster (IC) and reconnect 2 connectors.
The old IC has no CEL or warnings. However when I start the engine the new IC shows 5 errors with CEL:

Engine Oil Level
Engine Fan
Break Lining wear
ABS - Anti-lock Brake System
ETS: el. Traction Support

I pulled the OBD II Codes and again found No Codes as before the replacement.
Those errors could have been there when the IC was removed from the donor car. I thought the IC was merely a display device except for the odometer but apparently it has a memory for other things too.

My questions:

1- will the warnings disappear after driving a while with the new instrument cluster adapting to the board computer?

2- If not how can I erase/reset the warnings on the new IC. As I tried erasing OBD II codes does not help.

Thanks for your inputs!

Carson357 · #2 03-17-2008, 02:37 AM

it is probably has incompatible version coding for your car, what does the mileage show? is it all dashes like this?
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Texholdem · #3 03-17-2008, 08:54 AM

The odometer shows 138970 miles and all pixels seems to be OK.
My actual mileage is 5K less but I would not mind. My car is a 1996 E320 and the replacement is from a 1997 E320, could that be the cause for incompatibility?

TimFreeh · #4 03-17-2008, 09:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Texholdem

My car is a 1996 E320 and the replacement is from a 1997 E320, could that be the cause for incompatibility?

Could be.

Didn't the 96 E320 still use the M104 engine? IIRC the 97 went to the new M113 V6.

I don't know the particulars for your car but I do know that the instrument cluster plays an important and vital role in system integration in the newer CAN based control systems. They are not plug-and-play components anymore.

I think Programma can fix the "missing pixel" problems with your original cluster and if I were in your shoes I would try to find somebody to fix your existing cluster.

Texholdem · #5 03-17-2008, 10:37 AM

Just checked EPC data. The IC (part # A 210 540 56 47) is also for 1996 E320. However there is a footnote saying:

"As of ident. no A 117064, J 024802 except code 806. ALso installed in vehicle to A 117063, J 024801 with code 807"

My VIN ended with J017888. According to the footnote the IC can be used if my car has the code 807. What is this code 807 and where is it on the car?

I looked at the plaque in front of the engine block but saw no 807 there.

Quote:

Tim: I think Programma can fix the "missing pixel" problems with your original cluster and if I were in your shoes I would try to find somebody to fix your existing cluster.

sending the IC out for repair was not the first option, because it is a daily driver. So I thought replacing it with a used one could work.

TimFreeh · #6 03-17-2008, 11:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Texholdem

Just checked EPC data. The IC (part # A 210 540 56 47) is also for 1996 E320. However there is a footnote sayingd

Having the same part number does not guarantee "plug-and-play" functionality. Do a search on "version coding" - some of the newer electronic modules need to be informed of their operating environment and different engines or other features vary from car to car. Its kind of like getting the correct printer driver for your printer and version of windows.

Some modules can be version coded by the user, like the climate control panel but others (like instrument clusters) need to be version coded via the Star Diagnostic System.

If your car runs OK with the replacement cluster I'd send your original out to be repaired then swap it back into the car.

I'm afraid I don't have any info about your 806/807 issue.

Tim