Replacement gauge cluster odometer screen not working

_LUNA_

MEMBER
2004 GMC SIERRA
6.0L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
211,266 MILES

The original cluster shot itself, so I went to pick and pull (cheap ass over here) and robbed a re-manufactured cluster from a 2004 Avalanche. Same wiring harness, and I still have the same odometer issue I did with the previous cluster. It seems to only work if I tap on the face a few times. All other lights/gauges work fine. I have noticed, using a reader and a GPS speed tracker, at all times it is 2 kilometers slower than what the HUD or the speedometer show. I have replaced the transfer case after the cluster, the original was shot, and replaced the box in favor of a deck as I had a deck, and the box was also shot. The truck was a company truck with some electrical done to it (beacons, 2 way stereo) I got the truck without a tailgate (it was stolen the day after I said I would pick it up. Pissed me off a lot), and the stereo was replaced in favor of a pioneer aftermarket, the original was shot.

Anyway, the odometer screen displays a whole bunch of nothing. But when it does, it is dim. If the fuel filter has anything to do with it, why. Lmao

All other cluster lights/gauges work fine without issue. I did notice that after replacing the headlight toggle switch, the cluster lights no longer turn to dim on its own, and the interior light works again.

I have replaced the cigarette lighter (12v) fuse because that went dead. Along with my digital HUD. Other than what was mentioned, no other electrical was done that I know of. I have found multiple loose wires and whatnot under the dash. I am assuming ground issue. Battery is from 2015 as well. And it is not cheap. It's NAPA.

1 Reply

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,463 POSTS

This is a common failure on those clusters. It is caused by failed solder joints on the circuit board and possible damage to the voltage regulator that powers the VFD.
If you would like to see numerous repairs on them go to youtube and search for jeffescortlx
It isn't a hard repair normally, just takes some soldering skill to re-flow the solder.

As far as being slow, there is a normal tolerance level (usually about 5%) built into the system so that the speedometer is close with the OEM tire sizes and inflation pressures. However a new set of tires from a different company or even just lower air pressure can make it read different. There are also programming differences in the various parts that can make them read different.