Hello,

The car is a 2000 S-type v8, I understand that an instrument cluster from another car would not work. But would it also causes the security system to "lock out" the car requiring a tow to a dealer?

If the car is "locked out", would installing the original cluster un-lock the car?


Many thanks.

 

Yes. The car should start and run with the wrong cluster but you should get beeps and the cluster won't work much if at all.

Have you tried starting it with the replacement cluster?
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It sounds a risk even to try it. Fixing whatever's wrong with the existing cluster looks better.

 

Yes, I am working on fixing the original cluster. But just in case I bought a replacement one from the 'bay. I needed to verify at least the replacement one has some functionality before I send it out for "recode". I have not install the replacement cluster (bought from ebay) yet, for fear of the "lock-out" issue. From "Tbird6"'s answer, it's o.k to try.

Thanks folks.

 

If it goes into anti-theft you're going to be stranded. Let us know (if you risk it).