A Preliminary Information

The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) uses information from other systems in order to execute some functions. Therefore, before further diagnosis, review the general information on how the IPC operates and how each system interacts with the IPC. Refer to Instrument Cluster Description. This will prevent excessive diagnostic time, future misdiagnosis, and unnecessary parts replacement. Description and Operation

Use a scan tool in order to diagnose the IPC when referred to in diagnostic procedures. In addition to displaying DTCs, the scan tool displays the input status and the data values. The scan tool can also command many of the IPC display functions ON and OFF. Any of these features can be selected using the scan tool.

Replace the IPC only if the diagnostic procedures specifically direct you to do so. Every input to the IPC and every output from the IPC is short to ground/short to battery protected. Therefore, the IPC does not automatically need to be replaced when a short is found in the wiring. Repair the wiring first Then inspect the system for further problems. Most system malfunctions are traceable to faulty wiring and connectors, and occasionally components. The IPC is very reliable and not the likely cause of a system malfunction. IPC replacement before a complete diagnosis will usually result in a recurrence of the original complaint malfunction.