Instrument Cluster: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Pickup and 2004 Dodge Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The DR Instrument Cluster is a new type of control module that includes the hardware and software necessary to function as the cluster and the body control module. The Instrument Cluster houses the Speedometer, Tachometer, Fuel gauge, Coolant Temperature gauge, Oil Pressure gauge, and the Voltage gauge. The cluster positions all of the gauges using PCI bus messages received from the PCM. The cluster contains certain warning indicators, depending on engine type and options. Some of the indicators are hardwire inputs and some indicators are controlled via PCI bus messages. The warning chime tone generator is contained within the cluster. The cluster includes a vacuum fluorescent (VF) display for the PRNDL, Total and Trip Odometers. The VF will also display warning messages such as door ajar, low washer fluid level, engine hours, and no bus communications. The cluster has the ability to set and store DTCs, communicate on the PCI bus, display engine information, and display certain inputs using the DRBIII®.

The following systems are controlled either completely by the Instrument Cluster or in conjunction with other inputs received by hardwire or via the PCI bus:

Audible Warnings
Brake Lamp Control
Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI)
Cargo Lamp Control
Central Locking
Door Lock Inhibit
Enhanced Accident Response
Exterior Lighting Control
Exterior Lighting Fail-Safe
Heated Seat Control
Horn Control
Interior Lamp Control
Interior Lamps - Enhanced Accident Response
Interior Lamps Load Shedding
Lamp Out Indicator Control
Panel Lamps Dimming Control
Parade Mode
Power Locks
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
Remote Radio Switch Interface
Rolling Door Locks
Turn Signal and Hazard Warning Lamp Control
Vacuum Fluorescent Display Synchronization
Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS)

CAUTION: Instrument clusters used in this model automatically configure themselves for compatibility with the features and optional equipment in the vehicle in which they are initially installed. The instrument cluster is programmed to do this by embedding the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and other information critical to proper cluster operation in electronic memory. This embedded information is learned through electronic messages received from other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI) data bus, and through certain hard wired inputs received when the cluster is connected to the vehicle electrically.
Once configured, the instrument cluster memory may be irreparably damaged and certain irreversible configuration errors may occur if the cluster is connected electrically to another vehicle; or, if an electronic module from another vehicle is connected that provides data to the instrument cluster (including odometer values) that conflicts with that which was previously learned and stored.
Therefore, the practice of exchanging (swapping) instrument clusters and other electronic modules in this vehicle with those removed from another vehicle must always be avoided. Failure to observe this caution may result in instrument cluster damage, which is not reimbursable under the terms of the product warranty. Service replacement instrument clusters are provided with the correct VIN, and the certified odometer and engine hours values embedded in cluster memory, but will otherwise be automatically configured for compatibility with the features and optional equipment in the vehicle in which they are initially installed.

For complete Description and Operation of the Instrument Cluster, refer to INSTRUMENT CLUSTER . For information regarding systems such as Wiper/Washer, RKE, Lighting, etc., refer to the appropriate article.