Hello all,

My instrument cluster check engine light does not light up. I did buy a used identical replacement instrument cluster for ebay for 25.00. It looks the same.
According to my jaguar mechanic he said that the instrument cluster are hard coded to the Vinn of the car and it wont work at all.
He also said the jaguar dealers in the states no longer run or use the software known as IDES to program older vehicles.
He said maybe swap just the bulb might work but that about it.

My question is is that true simply swapping the instrument cluster would not solve the problem?
Any thoughts ?

 

rm1111, the mechanic is partially correct in that there is a number that is coded into the instrument cluster and needs to match what is in the PATS module, which will also match your keys. Without all these checks being satisfied, you will find that the center console will have a red flashing light.

Where the mechanic is wrong is replacing the light bulb for the Check engine light. This is a surface mount LED, not a bulb. So, yes, an instrument cluster swap should solve your issue as the check engine light is turned on via the ECM via a digital signal. So, there is no cut wire unless your instrument cluster had someone damage that LED for the check engine light.

 

 

OK thanks for the advice, at this pint its not a must have in a way.

Since i live in indiana, and the car is 25 years old and about to become a classic once it is i dont have to worry about emmisions or any check engine light at all just insurance.

I will let the jaguar mechanic know your thoughts we shall see.

Rm1111