99 STS Instrument Panel replacement?

Seafunk99 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 12:54 PM

I took the car in to local dealer to see whats wrong with my blacked out dash. They said I need a new Instrument Panel Cluster and it will cost 1550.00 to install. I can get a new one for ~650. How difficult is this swap? Is it just plug and play? I'd hate to pay another 1,000 just to have them do it. Any info greatly appreciated.

iametarq · #2 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 01:07 PM

Check out this listing on ebay. View his store. He's got a few for under a REALLY good price

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...m=280199800006

It should just be plug and play. My Chrysler is that way, I have never removed mine from the Seville though. $1000 to install is...insane.

CadillacSTS2003 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 01:19 PM

prob not 1k to install
its likely the 650 is dealer direct pricing and 1550 is for the total job

ewill will chime in but im sure its not plug and play i know the Eldo cluster needs to inteface with the VATS system pellet in the key so being PAS key is above that, id say the cluster at the VERY LEAST will need to be programmed, not to mention im sure theres a mileage liability or something so you dont get that nasty note on your title, acutal mileage unknown or mileage tampering...

Seafunk99 · #4 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 02:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CadillacSTS2003

prob not 1k to install
its likely the 650 is dealer direct pricing and 1550 is for the total job

ewill will chime in but im sure its not plug and play i know the Eldo cluster needs to inteface with the VATS system pellet in the key so being PAS key is above that, id say the cluster at the VERY LEAST will need to be programmed, not to mention im sure theres a mileage liability or something so you dont get that nasty note on your title, acutal mileage unknown or mileage tampering...

The dealer wants 1550 for the entire job...I can get the cluster for 650 from gm-parts.com. Apparently there needs to be some programming done and the cluster will get sent out to have proper mileage installed (according to dealer). My question is am I going to be forced to have the dealer do this? My local mechanic said he could remove and replace it for under $100 but he can't do any programming. He would send the unit to be repaired and put it back in.

iametarq · #5 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 03:52 PM

Why the hell is the mileage stored in the cluster? that's the stupidest thing ever. I would expect it to be stored in the PCM.

Just checked "The Good book" it makes no mention of programming the Cluster. I am attaching a PDF of the page. http://gallery.iametarq.com/cars/cad...cal/IPC_RR.pdf

chubbyranger · #6 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 06:27 PM

99 FSM states that the cluster must be reprogrammed with a scan tool. Mileage is stored in the cluster. Try checking with the dealer and see if they will reprogram the cluster if you have it installed elsewhere.

CadillacSTS2003 · #7 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 06:29 PM

Mileage is stored in the PCM and MATCHED with the mileage in the cluster in order to verify everything
its a double check
yea the dealer will have to program everything
and they have to send your OLD one out to verify the mileage or else your title will be branded for life

iametarq · #8 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 08:04 PM

That is fricken' RIDICULOUS.

On another note, why would ESI make no mention of the programming for the cluster?

Seafunk99 · #9 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 09:14 PM

Yes, its true the dealer sends the cluster out for repair...I called the place (Specmo Enterprises) myself and they said programming is only needed if the main circuit board or something is bad. If its a power supply problem or something like that its plug and play. How difficult is it to pull the cluster?
edit - just found intructions from above, thanks

Seafunk99 · #10 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 09:22 PM

Removal of the cluster looks pretty simple...but how do you get the dash pad off first to access the fasteners??? How about the trim around the cluster?This would be a good opportunity to retrieve the sentinel sensor that fell inside the dash too! I've been getting "headlights suggested" in the middle of the day.

CadillacSTS2003 · #11 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 10:04 PM

pad comes off via 9/32 bolts behind each vent
vents are pulled using a slim knife or credit card between the vent and dash

as for ESI, it doesnt make mention of theftlock programming for radios either after replacement

chubbyranger · #12 (**permalink**) 02-11-08, 11:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CadillacSTS2003

pad comes off via 9/32 bolts behind each vent

7 mm socket also works on the screws behind the vents, close the vents first to keep the screws from getting away. You must also remove the A-pillar trim before the dashpad will lift up enough to release the rear clips. Use a flashlight in the vents to see how the vents clip in. Removing the vents is the most time and patience consuming part of the job.

Tom Wasko · #13 (**permalink**) 02-12-08, 05:49 PM

Just call Specmo at 800-545-7910 and they can probably repair/remanufacture it for under $500.00.

Logandiagnostic · #14 (**permalink**) 02-13-08, 02:15 PM

The dealer cannot program the mileage. Can you imagine how many used cars would be rolled back?

A Delco radio/speedometer repair shop can program the mileage. 10 minute job tops.

The cluster should be plug and play. It was on my 2001 Deville when I installed a DTS cluster.

All you have to do is remove the top dash pad and some of to wood parts. Maybe 45 minute job to swap in..

Logan Diagnostic LLC
www.ledfix.com
www.airbagcrash.com
www.logandieselusa.com

Dmogie · #15 (**permalink**) 02-14-08, 11:41 AM

My 99 STS is at the dealer right now for inop door locks, radio, temp and fuel gauges. This only happens when the engine is running- they all work fine on ACC key position. The dealer wants $1200+ to replace the CLUSTER and insists that is my problem. BS. I can't believe a faulty CLUSTER would have anything to do with the radio and door locks! I do agree, there are many clusters available for under $150 including shipping.