Needle fell of tachometer

Tiny
MATTGREENE1
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 NISSAN MAXIMA
  • 3.5L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 105,000 MILES
I was driving and hit a pretty big pothole. This caused the needle from my tachometer to fall off and rest in the bottom of the instrument panel. There are bright LED lights behind it that now shine in my eyes. The car still runs fine, but this is driving me nuts. Is there a way to fix it aside from replacing the entire instrument cluster which I am sure will cost a pretty penny?
Wednesday, February 27th, 2019 AT 3:58 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 13,444 POSTS
You don't need to replace the cluster, the needle should be able to be reinstalled on the pin. To get it apart you gently pry the end cap off of the dash (img1), then remove the fuse panel cover then remove the screw inside it (img2). Now you need to pry on the lower cover to release the clips then disconnect the wiring and the aspirator hose. With it off you will be able to access the cluster lid screws and remove them. Then pry on it gently to release the clips and remove it. (Img3).
Now you can remove the screws that retain the cluster itself and disconnect it to remove it. (Img4).

Now with the cluster out you need to set it down on a soft surface like a towel. The lens has clips that secure it in place. 3 on top, 3 on the bottom, Gently pry them until the lens releases. Now you will need to retrieve the needle and be sure it isn't broken. If it's okay you can reconnect the cluster, then the harness under the lower cover. Now just turn the key on. This should zero all the gauges. Now press the needle back onto the shaft at 0 rpm's. Reattach the lens and reverse the steps to put it all back together.
If the needle is loose or broken you should be able to find a replacement online. Don't try to glue it on with something like super glue, it could run into the stepper motor and ruin it.
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Wednesday, February 27th, 2019 AT 6:09 PM

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