How to Diagnose and Fix Volvo Instrument Cluster Issues
A Volvo instrument cluster, also known as a speedometer, may fail, triggering various warning lights to come on and, in some cases, the speedometer to stop working.
Although Volvo has always been known for its commitment to quality and safety, Volvo’s instrument cluster problems are most frequent. The instrument cluster is also known as Driver’s Information Module (DIM) or instrument panel, as it is more commonly called.
Symptoms
Some of the most common problems that affect the instrument cluster on Volvo vehicles include:
- Lights not illuminating, turning on the ignition
- Intermittent illumination of lights
- Check engine light stays on
- Warning lights turning on and then off randomly
- Gauges and needles are not working.
- Intermittent or dim Information displays
- Intermittent or fully dead cluster
- Intermittent Gauges
- Flickering lights
- Dim Back-lighting
- Clock running up or down quickly
- Non-Communication
- Check engine light comes on when the E-brake is pulled.
If you notice any of these symptoms, but your car still seems to be running fine, the problem may be the instrument cluster itself.
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Possible Causes
Picture of defective Volvo instrument cluster.
First, check the fuse for the instrument panel. Next, read the fault codes from the IC module with a Volvo scanner. If you can’t communicate with the IC module, you have a faulty cluster (IC) or damaged wire harness. Another problem that could trigger random warning lights on your Volvo dashboard is a defective CEM module.
CEM problems can be caused by various electrical components, circuit board or electrical unit failures, or even water damage. Again, if your instrument cluster isn’t working correctly, have it diagnosed by a specialist as soon as possible.
If your mechanic determines the problem is the instrument cluster, replacing the existing cluster is cheaper. You can remove the old cluster and send it to an instrument cluster specialist for repair. See these listings of Volvo Instrument Cluster Repair Service.
Many Volvo models, including the S60, S80, V70 XC70, have been reported to have issues with the instrument cluster, such as warning lights showing up when they shouldn’t or flashing unnecessarily. Problems with the instrument cluster can be dangerous because you don’t get an accurate read on what is going on with your car.
If you think the instrument cluster isn’t working properly on your Volvo, it is important to have it diagnosed as soon as possible.
Possible Solutions
When fixing Volvo instrument cluster problems, you have a few different options.
You can choose to:
- Dealer – take your car to a Volvo dealer,
- Repair service – send the cluster off to be serviced
- Used cluster – install a used Volvo instrument cluster.
Dealer
The most logical solution to this concern is to take it to your Volvo dealer and have them diagnose and fix the issue. This is great because they are Volvo specialists and will know exactly how to tell if there is a problem and be able to fix it or replace the cluster for you.
The downside of this option is that the dealer will charge between $850 – and $1200 to fix the issue.
Repair Service
Your second option is to turn to companies that specialize in Volvos and offer Volvo instrument cluster repair.
You pay for the service, detach the instrument cluster from your car, and ship it off for service. This is a relatively easy option, as it’s not very difficult to remove the instrument cluster. Unscrew it, unplug it, and pull it out. Depending on your chosen service provider, it will only cost about $100-250.
However, you will have to wait for the parts to be shipped, serviced, and returned to you, so you should not drive your car. The main advantage is that the repair service is significantly cheaper than having the dealer replace your cluster. Plus, the mileage and all settings remain the same.
Installing a Used Cluster
The last option is to purchase a used Volvo instrument cluster on eBay.
Miles on the old cluster will not match your miles. Mark the title Not Actual Miles when selling the car and let the buyer know. For almost any Volvo model, you can find used parts for around $100. Usually, these are parts sold off cars in wrecks and no longer run.
Troubleshooting
A YOUCANIC Full System Scanner is a valuable tool for troubleshooting instrument cluster problems in a Volvo vehicle. This powerful scanner can retrieve and analyze diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored by the car’s instrument cluster. The scanner can also access live data from various sensors and systems, allowing the technician to diagnose issues with the instrument cluster and other car parts.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, Volvo instrument cluster problems are common. On the bright side, there are ways to resolve them. You must know what warning signs and symptoms to look for that indicate that the cluster isn’t working correctly. Otherwise, you may go a long time with undiagnosed problems, which are dangerous and could cause long-term issues with your car. Have your car checked out by a Volvo mechanic, and then decide the best option to fix it.
We hope you find the Volvo Instrument Cluster Problems guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Volvo.
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