2001 DODGE RAM instrument cluster

The EMIC circuitry operates on battery current
received through a fused B(+) fuse in the Junction
Block (JB) on a non-switched fused B(+) circuit, and
on battery current received through a fused ignition
switch output (st-run) fuse in the JB on a fused igni-
tion switch output (st-run) circuit. This arrangement
allows the EMIC to provide some features regardless
of the ignition switch position, while other features
will operate only with the ignition switch in the Start
or On positions. The EMIC circuitry is grounded
through two separate ground circuits located in one
of the two instrument cluster connectors and take
outs of the instrument panel wire harness. One
ground circuit receives ground through a take out
with an eyelet terminal connector of the instrument
panel wire harness that is secured by a nut to a
ground stud located on the left instrument panel end
bracket, while the other ground circuit receives
ground through a take out with an eyelet terminal
connector of the instrument panel wire harness that
is secured by a nut to a ground stud located on the
back of the instrument panel armature above the
inboard side of the instrument panel steering column
opening.
The EMIC also has a self-diagnostic actuator test
capability, which will test each of the CCD bus mes-
sage-controlled functions of the cluster by lighting
the appropriate indicators and positioning the gauge
needles at several predetermined locations on the
gauge faces in a prescribed sequence. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNO-
SIS AND TESTING). See the owner's manual in the
vehicle glove box for more information on the fea-
tures, use and operation of the EMIC.
GAUGES
All gauges receive battery current through the
EMIC circuitry when the ignition switch is in the On
or Start positions. With the ignition switch in the Off
position battery current is not supplied to any
gauges, and the EMIC circuitry is programmed to
move all of the gauge needles back to the low end of
their respective scales. Therefore, the gauges do not
accurately indicate any vehicle condition unless the
ignition switch is in the On or Start positions. All of
the EMIC gauges, except the odometer, are air core
magnetic units. Two fixed electromagnetic coils are
located within each gauge. These coils are wrapped
at right angles to each other around a movable per-
manent magnet. The movable magnet is suspended
within the coils on one end of a pivot shaft, while the
gauge needle is attached to the other end of the
shaft. One of the coils has a fixed current flowing
through it to maintain a constant magnetic fieldstrength. Current flow through the second coil
changes, which causes changes in its magnetic field
strength. The current flowing through the second coil
is changed by the EMIC circuitry in response to mes-
sages received over the CCD data bus. The gauge
needle moves as the movable permanent magnet
aligns itself to the changing magnetic fields created
around it by the electromagnets.
The gauges are diagnosed using the EMIC self-di-
agnostic actuator test. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). Proper testing of the CCD data bus and
the data bus message inputs to the EMIC that con-
trol each gauge require the use of a DRBIIItscan
tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
Specific operation details for each gauge may be
found elsewhere in this service manual.
VACUUM-FLUORESCENT DISPLAY
The Vacuum-Fluorescent Display (VFD) module is
soldered to the EMIC circuit board. The display is
active with the ignition switch in the On or Start
positions, and inactive when the ignition switch is in
any other position. The VFD has several display
capabilities including odometer, trip odometer, and
an amber ªCRUISEº indication whenever the
optional speed control system is turned On. The
cruise indicator function of the VFD is automatically
enabled or disabled by the EMIC circuitry based
upon whether the vehicle is equipped with the speed
control option. An odometer/trip odometer switch on
the EMIC circuit board is used to control several of
the display modes. This switch is actuated manually
by depressing the odometer/trip odometer switch
knob that extends through the lower edge of the clus-
ter lens, just right of center. Actuating this switch
momentarily with the ignition switch in the On posi-
tion will toggle the VFD between the odometer and
trip odometer modes. The word ªTRIPº will also
appear in blue-green text when the VFD trip odome-
ter mode is active. Depressing the switch button for
about two seconds while the VFD is in the trip odom-
eter mode will reset the trip odometer value to zero.
Holding this switch depressed while turning the igni-
tion switch from the Off position to the On position
will activate the EMIC self-diagnostic actuator test.
The EMIC will automatically flash the odometer or
trip odometer information on and off if there is a loss
of CCD data bus communication. The VFD will also
display various information used in several diagnos-
tic procedures. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic
information for additional details on this VFD func-
tion.
8J - 4 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERBR/BE
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

The VFD is diagnosed using the EMIC self-diag-
nostic actuator test. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/IN-
STRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). Proper testing of the CCD data bus and
the data bus message inputs to the EMIC that con-
trol some of the VFD functions requires the use of a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information. Specific operation details for the
odometer and trip odometer functions of the VFD
may be found elsewhere in this service manual.
INDICATORS
Indicators are located in various positions within
the EMIC and are all connected to the EMIC circuit
board. The four-wheel drive indicator, high beam
indicator, washer fluid indicator, turn signal indica-
tors, and wait-to-start indicator are hard wired. The
brake indicator is controlled by CCD data bus mes-
sages from the Controller Anti-lock Brake (CAB) and
the hard wired park brake switch input to the EMIC.
The seatbelt indicator is controlled by the EMIC pro-
gramming, CCD data bus messages from the Airbag
Control Module (ACM), and the hard wired seat belt
switch input to the EMIC. The Malfunction Indicator
Lamp (MIL) is normally controlled by CCD data bus
messages from the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM); however, if the EMIC loses CCD data bus
communications, the EMIC circuitry will automati-
cally turn the MIL on, and flash the odometer VFD
on and off repeatedly until CCD data bus communi-
cation is restored. The EMIC uses CCD data bus
messages from the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM), the diesel engine only Engine Control Module
(ECM), the ACM, and the CAB to control all of the
remaining indicators. Different indicators are con-
trolled by different strategies; some receive fused
ignition switch output from the EMIC circuitry clus-
ter and have a switched ground, while others are
grounded through the EMIC circuitry and have a
switched battery feed.
In addition, certain indicators in this instrument
cluster are programmable or configurable. This fea-
ture allows the programmable indicators to be acti-
vated or deactivated with a DRBIIItscan tool, while
the configurable indicators will be automatically
enabled or disabled by the EMIC circuitry for com-
patibility with certain optional equipment. The only
programmable indicator for this model is the upshift
indicator. The cruise indicator, four-wheel drive indi-
cator, overdrive-off indicator, service reminder indica-
tor, and the transmission overtemp indicator are
automatically configured, either electronically or
mechanically.The hard wired indicators are diagnosed using con-
ventional diagnostic methods. The EMIC and CCD
bus message controlled indicator lamps are diagnosed
using the EMIC self-diagnostic actuator test. (Refer
to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). Proper testing of the
CCD data bus and the data bus message inputs to
the EMIC that control each indicator lamp require
the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appro-
priate diagnostic information. Specific operation
details for each indicator may be found elsewhere in
this service manual.
CLUSTER ILLUMINATION
The EMIC has several illumination lamps that are
illuminated when the exterior lighting is turned on
with the headlamp switch. The illumination bright-
ness of these lamps is adjusted by the panel lamps
dimmer rheostat when the headlamp switch thumb-
wheel is rotated (down to dim, up to brighten). The
illumination lamps receive battery current through
the panel lamps dimmer rheostat and a fuse in the
JB on a fused panel lamps dimmer switch signal cir-
cuit. The illumination lamps are grounded at all
times.
In addition, an analog/digital (A/D) converter in
the EMIC converts the analog panel lamps dimmer
rheostat input from the headlamp switch to a digital
dimming level signal for controlling the lighting level
of the VFD. The EMIC also broadcasts this digital
dimming information as a message over the CCD
data bus for use by the Compass Mini-Trip Computer
(CMTC) in synchronizing the lighting level of its
VFD with that of the EMIC. The headlamp switch
thumbwheel also has a Parade position to provide a
parade mode. The EMIC monitors the request for
this mode through a hard wired day brightness sense
circuit input from the headlamp switch. In this mode,
the EMIC will override the selected panel dimmer
switch signal and send a message over the CCD data
bus to illuminate all vacuum fluorescent displays at
full brightness for easier visibility when driving in
daylight with the exterior lighting turned on. The
parade mode has no effect on the incandescent bulb
illumination intensity.
The hard wired cluster illumination lamps are
diagnosed using conventional diagnostic methods.
Proper testing of the VFD dimming level and the
CCD data bus dimming level message functions
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
BR/BEINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 5
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

CHIME WARNING REQUESTS
The EMIC is programmed to request chime service
from the Central Timer Module (CTM) when certain
indicator lamps are illuminated. When the pro-
grammed conditions are met, the EMIC generates a
chime request signal and sends it over a hard wired
tone request circuit to the CTM. Upon receiving the
proper chime request, the CTM activates an integral
chime tone generator to provide the audible chime
tone to the vehicle operator. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/CHIME/BUZZER - OPERATION). Proper test-
ing of the CTM and the EMIC chime requests
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER
If all of the instrument cluster gauges and/or indi-
cators are inoperative, refer to PRELIMINARY
DIAGNOSIS . If an individual gauge or Chrysler Col-
lision Detection (CCD) data bus message-controlled
indicator is inoperative, refer to ACTUATOR TEST .
If an individual hard wired indicator is inoperative,
refer to the diagnosis and testing information for
that specific indicator. If the instrument cluster
chime warning request function is inoperative, refer
to CHIME WARNING REQUEST DIAGNOSIS . If
the instrument cluster illumination lighting is inop-
erative, refer to CLUSTER ILLUMINATION DIAG-
NOSIS . If the instrument cluster Vacuum-
Fluorescent Display (VFD) dimmer service is
inoperative, use a DRBIIItscan tool to diagnose the
problem. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic proce-
dures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information.
The wiring information includes wiring diagrams,
proper wire and connector repair procedures, details
of wire harness routing and retention, connector pin-
out information and location views for the various
wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
NOTE: Certain indicators in this instrument cluster
are programmable. This feature allows those indica-
tors to be activated or deactivated with a DRBIIIT
scan tool for compatibility with certain optional
equipment. If the problem being diagnosed involves
improper illumination of the upshift indicator, use a
DRBIIITscan tool to be certain that the instrument
cluster has been programmed with the proper vehi-
cle equipment option settings.PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) If the indicators operate, but none of the
gauges operate, go to Step 2. If all of the gauges and
the CCD data bus message-controlled indicators are
inoperative, go to Step 5.
(2) Check the fused B(+) fuse (Fuse 14 - 10
ampere) in the Junction Block (JB). If OK, go to Step
3. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or component
as required and replace the faulty fuse.
(3) Check for battery voltage at the fused B(+) fuse
(Fuse 14 - 10 ampere) in the JB. If OK, go to Step 4.
If not OK, repair the open fused B(+) circuit between
the JB and the Power Distribution Center (PDC) as
required.
(4) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Remove the instrument cluster. Connect the
battery negative cable. Check for battery voltage at
the fused B(+) circuit cavity of the instrument panel
wire harness connector (Connector C1) for the instru-
ment cluster. If OK, refer to ACTUATOR TEST . If
not OK, repair the open fused B(+) circuit between
the instrument cluster and the JB as required.
(5) Check the fused ignition switch output (st-run)
fuse (Fuse 17 - 10 ampere) in the JB. If OK, go to
Step 6. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or com-
ponent as required and replace the faulty fuse.
(6) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Check for battery voltage at the fused ignition switch
output (st-run) fuse (Fuse 17 - 10 ampere) in the JB.
If OK, go to Step 7. If not OK, repair the open fused
ignition switch output (st-run) circuit between the
instrument cluster and the JB as required.
8J - 6 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERBR/BE
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

(7) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Reinstall the instrument cluster. Reconnect the bat-
tery negative cable. Turn the ignition switch to the
On position. Set the park brake. The brake indicator
in the instrument cluster should light. If OK, go to
Step 8. If not OK, go to Step 9.
(8) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Turn on the park lamps and adjust the panel lamps
dimmer thumbwheel in the headlamp switch to the
full bright position. The cluster illumination lamps
should light. If OK, go to Step 10. If not OK, repair
the open ground circuit (Z3) between the instrument
cluster and ground (G201) as required.
(9) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Remove the instrument cluster. Connect the battery
negative cable. Turn the ignition switch to the On
position. Check for battery voltage at the fused igni-
tion switch output (st-run) circuit cavity of the
instrument panel wire harness connector (Connector
C1). If OK, refer to ACTUATOR TEST . If not OK,
repair the open fused ignition switch output (st-run)
circuit between the instrument cluster and the JB as
required.
(10) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Remove the instrument cluster. Check for con-
tinuity between the ground circuit (Z2) cavity of the
instrument panel wire harness connector (Connector
C1) and a good ground. There should be continuity. If
OK, refer to ACTUATOR TEST . If not OK, repair
the open ground circuit to ground (G200) as required.
ACTUATOR TEST
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
The instrument cluster actuator test will put the
instrument cluster into its self-diagnostic mode. In
this mode the instrument cluster can perform a self-
diagnostic test that will confirm that the instrument
cluster circuitry, the gauges, and the CCD data bus
message-controlled indicators are capable of operat-
ing as designed. During the actuator test the instru-
ment cluster circuitry position each of the gauge
needles at various calibration points, illuminate each
of the segments in the Vacuum-Fluorescent Display
(VFD), and turn all of the CCD data bus message-
controlled indicators on and off.
Successful completion of the actuator test will con-
firm that the instrument cluster is operational. How-
ever, there may still be a problem with the CCD data
bus, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the
Engine Control Module (ECM), the Airbag Control
Module (ACM), the Controller Anti-lock Brake (CAB),
or the inputs to one of these electronic control mod-
ules. Use a DRBIIItscan tool to diagnose these com-
ponents. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic
information.
(1) Begin the test with the ignition switch in the
Off position.
(2) Depress the odometer/trip odometer switch but-
ton.
(3) While still holding the odometer/trip odometer
switch button depressed, turn the ignition switch to
the On position, but do not start the engine.
(4) Keep the odometer/trip odometer switch button
depressed for about ten seconds, untilCHEC
appears in the odometer display, then release the
odometer/trip odometer switch button.
(5) A series of three-digit numeric failure messages
may appear in the odometer display, depending upon
the failure mode. If a failure message appears, refer
to the Instrument Cluster Failure Message chart for
the description and proper correction. If no failure
message appears, the actuator test will proceed as
described in Step 6.
BR/BEINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 7
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER FAILURE MESSAGE
Message Description Correction
110 A failure has been identified in the cluster
CPU, RAM, or EEPROM.1. Replace the faulty cluster.
900 The CCD data bus is not operational. 1. Check the CCD data bus connections at the
cluster.
2. Check the cluster fuses.
3. Check the CCD data bus bias.
4. Check the CCD data bus voltage.
5. Check the CCD data bus terminations.
920 The cluster is not receiving a vehicle speed
message from the PCM.1. Check the PCM software level and reflash if
required.
2. Use a DRBIIITscan tool to verify that the
vehicle speed message is being sent by the
PCM.
921 The cluster is not receiving a distance pulse
message from the PCM.1. Check the PCM software level and reflash if
required.
2. Use a DRBIIITscan tool to verify that the
distance pulse message is being sent by the
PCM.
940 The cluster is not receiving an airbag lamp-on
message from the ACM.1. Check the CCD data bus connections at the
ACM.
2. Check the ACM fuse.
950 The cluster is not receiving an ABS lamp-on
message from the CAB.1. Check the CCD data bus connections at the
CAB.
2. Check the CAB fuse.
999 An error has been discovered. 1. Record the failure message.
2. Depress the trip odometer reset button to
continue the Self-Diagnostic Test.
(6) The instrument cluster will begin the Vacuum
Fluorescent Display (VFD) walking segment test.
This test will require the operator to visually inspect
each VFD segment as it is displayed to determine a
pass or fail condition. First, all of the segments will
be illuminated at once; then, each individual segment
of the VFD will be illuminated in sequence. If any
segment in the display fails to illuminate, repeat the
test to confirm the failure. If the failure is confirmed,
replace the faulty instrument cluster. Following com-
pletion of the VFD walking segment test, the actua-
tor test will proceed as described in Step 7.
(7) The instrument cluster will perform a bulb
check of each indicator that the instrument cluster
circuitry controls. If the wait-to-start indicator does
not illuminate during this test, the instrument clus-
ter should be removed. However, check that the
incandescent bulb is not faulty and that the bulb
holder is properly installed on the instrument cluster
electronic circuit board before considering instrument
cluster replacement. If the bulb and bulb holder
check OK, replace the faulty instrument cluster.
Each of the remaining instrument cluster circuitrycontrolled indicators except the cruise indicator are
illuminated by a Light Emitting Diode (LED). If an
LED or the cruise indicator in the VFD, fails to illu-
minate during this test, the instrument cluster must
be replaced. Following the bulb check test, the actua-
tor test will proceed as described in Step 8.
(8) The instrument cluster will perform a gauge
actuator test. In this test the instrument cluster cir-
cuitry positions each of the gauge needles at three
different calibration points, then returns the gauge
needles to their relaxed positions. If an individual
gauge does not respond properly, or does not respond
at all during the gauge actuator test, the instrument
cluster should be removed. However, check that the
gauge terminal pins are properly inserted through
the spring-clip terminal pin receptacles on the instru-
ment cluster electronic circuit board before consider-
ing instrument cluster replacement. If the gauge
terminal connections are OK, replace the faulty
instrument cluster.
(9) The actuator test is now completed. The instru-
ment cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnos-
tic mode and return to normal operation at the
8J - 8 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERBR/BE
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

completion of the test, if the ignition switch is turned
to the Off position during the test, or if a vehicle
speed message indicating that the vehicle is moving
is received from the PCM on the CCD data bus dur-
ing the test.
(10) Go back to Step 1 to repeat the test, if
required.
CHIME WARNING REQUEST DIAGNOSIS
Before performing this test, complete the testing of
the seat belt switch and the Central Timer Module
(CTM). (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/
SEAT BELT SWITCH - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)
and (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CON-
TROL MODULES/BODY CONTROL/CENTRAL
TIMER MODULE - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
The diagnosis found here consists of confirming the
viability of the hard wired tone request circuit
between the instrument cluster and the Central
Timer Module (CTM). For diagnosis of the CCD data
bus and the data bus message inputs that cause the
instrument cluster to issue a request for chime ser-
vice, a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Remove the instrument cluster from the
instrument panel. Move the CTM away from its
mounting bracket far enough to access the instru-
ment panel wire harness connector(s) for the CTM.
Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness con-
nector (Connector C1) from the CTM connector recep-
tacle.
(2) Check for continuity between the tone request
circuit cavity of the instrument panel wire harness
connector (Connector C2) for the instrument cluster
and a good ground. There should be no continuity. If
OK, go to Step 3. If not OK, repair the shorted tone
request circuit between the instrument cluster and
the CTM as required.
(3) Check for continuity between the tone request
circuit cavities of the instrument panel wire harnessconnector (Connector C2) for the instrument cluster
and the instrument panel wire harness connector
(Connector C1) for the CTM. There should be conti-
nuity. If OK, replace the faulty instrument cluster. If
not OK, repair the open tone request circuit between
the instrument cluster and the CTM as required.
CLUSTER ILLUMINATION DIAGNOSIS
The diagnosis found here addresses an inoperative
instrument cluster illumination lamp condition. If
the problem being diagnosed is a single inoperative
illumination lamp, be certain that the bulb and bulb
holder unit are properly installed in the instrument
cluster electronic circuit board. If no installation
problems are found replace the faulty bulb and bulb
holder unit. If all of the cluster illumination lamps
are inoperative and the problem being diagnosed
includes inoperative exterior lighting controlled by
the headlamp switch, that system needs to be
repaired first. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/
LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/HEADLAMP - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING). If no exterior lighting system prob-
lems are found, the following procedure will help
locate a short or open in the cluster illumination
lamp circuit. If the problem being diagnosed involves
a lack of dimming control for the odometer/trip odom-
eter Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD), but all of
the other cluster illumination lamps can be dimmed,
test and repair the day brightness circuit between
the instrument cluster and the headlamp switch as
required. Refer to the appropriate wiring informa-
tion. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
details of wire harness routing and retention, connec-
tor pin-out information and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Check the instrument panel dimmer fuse (Fuse
5 - 5 ampere) in the Junction Block (JB). If OK, go to
Step 2. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or com-
ponent as required and replace the faulty fuse.
BR/BEINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 9
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

(2) Turn the exterior lamps On with the headlamp
switch. Rotate the headlamp switch panel lamps dim-
mer thumbwheel upward to just before the interior
lamps detent. Check for battery voltage at the panel
lamps dimmer fuse (Fuse5-5ampere) in the JB.
Rotate the panel lamps dimmer thumbwheel down-
ward while observing the test voltmeter. The reading
should go from battery voltage to zero volts. If OK,
go to Step 3. If not OK, repair the open panel lamps
dimmer switch signal circuit between the headlamp
switch and the JB as required.
(3) Turn the exterior lamps Off. Disconnect and
isolate the battery negative cable. Remove the instru-
ment cluster. Remove the instrument panel dimmer
fuse (Fuse5-5ampere) from the JB. Probe the
fused panel lamps dimmer switch signal circuit cav-
ity of the instrument panel wire harness connector
(Connector C2) for the instrument cluster. Check for
continuity to a good ground. There should be no con-
tinuity. If OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, repair the
shorted fused panel lamps dimmer switch signal cir-
cuit between the instrument cluster and the JB as
required.
(4) Reinstall the instrument panel dimmer fuse
(Fuse5-5ampere) in the JB. Reconnect the battery
negative cable. Turn the exterior lamps On with the
headlamp switch. Rotate the headlamp switch panel
lamps dimmer thumbwheel upward to just before the
interior lamps detent. Check for battery voltage at
the fused panel lamps dimmer switch signal circuit
cavity of the instrument panel wire harness connec-
tor (Connector C2) for the instrument cluster. If OK,
replace the faulty bulb and bulb holder units. If not
OK, repair the open fused panel lamps dimmer
switch signal circuit between the instrument cluster
and the JB as required.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the cluster bezel from the instrument
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/
CLUSTER BEZEL - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the four screws that secure the instru-
ment cluster to the instrument panel (Fig. 2).
(4) If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, place the automatic transmission gear
selector lever in the Park position.
(5) Pull the instrument cluster rearward far
enough to disengage the two self-docking instrument
panel wire harness connectors from the cluster con-
nector receptacles.
(6) If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, pull the instrument cluster rearward
far enough to access and remove the two screws that
secure the gear selector indicator to the back of the
instrument cluster housing (Fig. 3).
(7) If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic
transmission, disengage the gear selector indicator
from the back of the instrument cluster housing.
(8) Remove the instrument cluster from the instru-
ment panel.
Fig. 2 Instrument Cluster Remove/Install
1 - INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
2 - SCREW
3 - PRNDL CABLE
4 - SELF-DOCKING WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
8J - 10 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERBR/BE
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

DISASSEMBLY
Some of the components for the instrument cluster
used in this vehicle are serviced individually. The
serviced components include: the automatic transmis-
sion gear selector indicator, the incandescent instru-
ment cluster indicator lamp and illumination lamp
bulbs (including the integral bulb holders), the clus-
ter lens and hood unit, and the cluster housing rear
cover. The remaining components are serviced only
as a part of the cluster housing unit, which includes:
the cluster housing, the electronic circuit board unit,
the cluster overlay, the gauges, and the odometer/trip
odometer reset switch button. Following are the pro-
cedures for disassembling the serviced components
from the instrument cluster unit.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.GEAR SELECTOR INDICATOR
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the instrument cluster from the instru-
ment panel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRU-
MENT CLUSTER - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the steering column opening cover
from the instrument panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/STEERING COLUMN OPEN-
ING COVER - REMOVAL).
(4) Reach through the instrument panel steering
column opening to access and disengage the loop end
of the gear selector indicator cable from the PRNDL
driver lever on the left side of the steering column
(Fig. 4).
(5) Squeeze the sides of the plastic adjuster and
bracket unit to disengage the tabs that secure it to
the sides of the steering column window.
(6) Remove the gear selector indicator mechanism
and cable unit through the instrument panel cluster
opening.
CLUSTER BULB
This procedure applies to each of the incandescent
cluster illumination lamp or indicator lamp bulb and
bulb holder units. However, the illumination lamps
and the indicator lamps use different bulb and bulb
holder unit sizes. They must never be interchanged.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the instrument cluster from the instru-
ment panel. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRU-
MENT CLUSTER - REMOVAL).
Fig. 3 Gear Selector Indicator Remove/Install
1 - INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
2 - GEAR SELECTOR INDICATOR
3 - SCREW
Fig. 4 Gear Selector Indicator Cable Remove/Install
1 - STEERING COLUMN
2 - CABLE
3 - LOOP END
4 - LEVER
5 - ADJUSTER AND BRACKET
BR/BEINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 11
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)