There are a number of things that can go wrong with a W123 instrument cluster. Once you have the cluster out of the car and on the bench you can address them. In this 17-minute video, Kent will explain the problems, show some repairs, and guide you to other resources that may help you fix your cluster problems.
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Product Details
Here is a list of what is covered once you have your instrument cluster on the bench.
- Removing the instruments from the black plastic housing
- Where to send your speedometer for repair if the odometer is not working
- Problems with the engine instrument cluster addressed
- Where to purchase a replacement oil pressure gauge if it is leaking oil
- One cause of fuel gauge or engine temp gauge jumping or not working properly
- Differences between early and late engine instrument cluster shown
- Repairing a separated clear plastic front face
- Problems with plastic housing discussed
- Inspection of light bulb holders and light tunnels
- Purpose and problems with clear plastic light bar
- When you should find a new housing
- How to remove and paint the discolored white plastic bulb reflectors
- How to increase dash light brightness by sealing any light leaks in the housing
- Why use LED bulbs
- Problems with the dash light dimmer switch
- Options to repair or replace the dimmer switch - other resources given.
NOT included in this video are actual instructions to repair your odometer, your oil pressure gauge, or your dimmer switch. I have separate instructions and parts available for the latter two. I will tell you where to send your odometer for repair. See related products below:
This video does not cover removing the cluster from the car. If you are not familiar with that procedure a companion video is available. Please see related products below.
How to view this on-demand video:
Once you complete the purchase of this video you will be able to view it immediately when you are logged in and on your personal account page (click on My Account). The video(s) will show up under My Video Manuals. The video is NOT downloadable to your computer or mobile device, but you will be able to view it anytime, from anywhere and from any device as long as you have internet access and you are logged in to your account at mercedessource.com.
Important note: This video manual may or may not include all the information you will need to troubleshoot and/or repair your specific problem/s. Please read the full description carefully to determine if this video is applicable to your year and model and contains the information you are looking for. If not, please refer back to our "Solutions Finder" and enter your chassis number and the specific problem you are having to see if we offer a solution.
Related Products:
W123 Oil Pressure Gauge Actuator Replacement Instructions w/ Special Tool
Oil leaks at the oil pressure gauge are becoming an increasing problem, particularly on the 1981 to 1985 turbo diesel models. You will discover it when you see wetness at the bottom lip of your instrument cluster or you find oil leaking on your feet or legs.
Bypassing a Non Working Dash Light Dimmer Switch - On Demand Video
If both dash lights are not working including the lights in the upper center console the problem is most likely in the dimmer switch located on the back of the instrument cluster. This is also call the potentiometer providing variable resistance in the wiring to the bulbs.
How to Repair Your Dash Light Dimmer Switch - On Demand Video
If both dash lights are not working including the lights in the upper center console the problem is most likely in the dimmer switch located on the back of the instrument cluster. This is also called the potentiometer providing variable resistance in the wiring to the bulbs.
W123 Instrument Cluster Removal Procedure Without Damage - On Demand Video
In the video instruction, Kent will show you the step-by-step procedure on how to safely remove the instrument cluster from the dash. It will require our special dash pull tools that can be purchased separately.
How to Use Kent's New Instrument Cluster Removal Tools - On Demand Video
This video is free with the purchase of Kent's new dash cluster pull tool set. If you just want to see how he uses the tools and some tricks to get difficult clusters out you are welcome to purchase this video separately. Approximate run time is 20 minutes.
R107 W116 W123 W126 W201 W124 R129 W140 Instrument Cluster Removal Tools
Removing a Mercedes instrument cluster from any of the chassis listed is easy with these special "pull" tools. Many owners do not realize that the instrument cluster is just pushed into the dash panel and not held in with any bolts or screws.