Hi friends

My dash Gauge's stopped working. I looked at the fuse and it is not the fuse.

Does anyone know if it could be those black relay things above the fuses if that is maybe the thing that is wrong with the gauges??

Also I cannot see what automatic gear I am in because the lights on the gears all light up brightly.

Help!

 

What year is yours? Some models (like my 98) are known to have a bad solder joint on the back of the gauge cluster. This can cause the gauges to stop and start working.

 

My Van is a 1996 Dode Caravan. How or where do you find a cluster.

 

No need to buy a cluster. Just remove it, unscrew the circuit board from the back side, turn it over and reflow the 20 or so solder joints with a soldering iron where the connector is soldered to the circuit board. Many have done it. Another trouble spot is the HVAC control panel. The connector on the back side melts and can kill the instruments. This is a communications bus problem. Have you check for codes?

 

Hi Thanks for responding. I do not know how to solder. I have no clue what you are talking about. Please like speak elementary lol.

I did run the test and everything moved when the test was running even the gauges. So any ideas??

 

You would probably be better off having a friend or relative with some automotive aptitude read these posts and follow through. A new cluster will cost you $80 - $150 or more. You can buy a soldering iron for $10 at WalMart, Kmart, Sears, Radio shack. AutoZone or the like will read your codes for free.

Are your emergency flashers working? The HVAC panel is the A/C heater panel. Remove the bezel (that black plastic surrounding the panel) then 4 bolts securing the panel. Disconnect the electrical connection and see if your instrument cluster comes alive. Inspect the connection for burned contacts or melted plastic.

 

Was the HVAC control module wiring that over heated and burnt. Cleaned and replugged works for now. I will eventually solder a connecter into the Module and then put a heavier electrical connector in its place for a permanent repair. Good Tip ! ! !

 

I have read the posts regarding the cluster panel problems for the Dodge Caravan. I am experiencing the same problems with my Avenger. So is it safe to assume that repairs to my Avenger would be the same as the repairs for the Caravan? Can it be a fuse problem?

 

msmargo,

I'm sorry to hear about your cluster concerns. Are the gauges completely off, or is the issue intermittent? Have you brought the issue to your dealer's attention?

In some cases the cluster may require a software flash. It would be beneficial to speak with the Service Manager at your local dealer and demonstrate the issue if possible.

Keep us posted,

 

I doubt it. Only the 3rd generation (96-00) were afflicted with this solder joint issue. Doesn't apply to later model minivans. Doubt a 2010 Chrysler of any model would be. Wouldn't hurt to poke around the several Avenger forums on the net to see if it's mentioned.