Instrument Cluster / Carrier: Description and Operation

INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
The mechanical instrument cluster is an electromechanical module which receives most of its information directly from the various control modules, via the PCI data bus.

The cluster includes:
- Speedometer
- Tachometer
- Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VF) odometer/trip odometer and transmission range indicator with automatic transmission
- Fuel gauge
- Temperature gauge

The warning and information indicators include the following:
- Check Engine
- Airbag
- Charging system
- Low oil pressure
- High temperature
- Low fuel
- Seat belt
- Cruise (optional)
- Brake/park brake
- Anti-lock brake system (optional)
- High beam
- Front and Rear Fog lamps (optional)
- Vehicle Theft Security System alarm LED indicator (optional)
- Turn signals

VF display warnings:
- Door
- Deck

The gauges are the magnetic air-core type. Pointers should rest at or below the low graduation.

It receives its information from the Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Controller Anti- Lock Brakes (CAB), and Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), via the PCI data bus. Upon receipt of information, the cluster will determine the gauge position and whether the PCI bus controlled warnings should be turned ON or OFF
- The ABS is a learned feature by receiving an ABS message on the bus. Once learned, the ABS must be unlearned manually by sending a diagnostic message using a DRB III scan tool.
- The AIRBAG light is always supported, but can be unlearned automatically by using the VIN information and the non-receipt of AIRBAG messages. Receipt of AIRBAG messages will override non-airbag VIN information.
- The cluster provides the Auto-Stick (A/S) or Non Auto-Stick information via the PCI bus. The TCM will learn A/S or non A/S vehicle configuration per cluster information on the bus.
- The cluster is set to support vehicles equipped with a TCM (automatic transmission). In MTX (manual transmission) vehicles, the cluster will turn OFF gear information upon receipt of vehicle configuration from the PCM. At initial power-up, you might be able to potentially see the ATX gear letters. Once the MTX information is received, the gear letters will be turned OFF.