W163 Instrument cluster problem.

[Hawkmoon269]

Please could someone help.

I have just bought a 2003 ML 270 cdi, and love it. Noticed that the Outside Temp, Mileage and Gear/Clock on the instrument cluster did not illuminate. Went ahead and changed all 3 bulbs, but they still dont light up

Am I missing something else. All other dials light up fine when side lights are switched on, but the above 3 parts of the cluster should be permanently lit.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[optimusprime]

Do you have a dimmer for the cluster lights .Also a lot of Mercs have this small fuse in the rear of the speedo.

 

[Hawkmoon269]

There is a dimmer, but it is turned up to the fullest position. Do you know where the fuse is located in the speedo/cluster?

 

[Jane270ML]

Try here... http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum...luster-lights-w124-cluster-fuse-1-red-bis.jpg

Or just enter 'Mercedes instrument panel fuse' in google images

It's possible the dimmer is fused

 

[ahok19]

Try here... http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum...luster-lights-w124-cluster-fuse-1-red-bis.jpg

Thanks for link advice

 

[Hawkmoon269]

Hi Jane

I appreciate your reply and the link.

The dimmer still works, allows you to dim the speedo/MPH etc.

However the mileage, temp and clock/gear selected have no illumination. Normally these are always illuminated even when lights are off.

I will have a look for the fuse, but the back of my instrument cluster does not look like that picture in the link.

If I get another cluster, can I just plug it in or does it need coding to the vehicle?

 

[optimusprime]

Dont do anything right now just wait and see who answers your question might be an easy fix .This must have been a problem for other merc owners .

 

[Hawkmoon269]

Ok thanks

 

[Hawkmoon269]

It seems as though no one has had this issue before, so can I just buy a new cluster and plug it in or does it have to be coded to the car?

 

[DrX]

The IC is not coded, so any one will work. However, it does store the mileage. It may be possible to change the mileage value using Star Diagnosis.