Is it necessary to replace faulty instrument cluster assembly?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Tim1, Feb 19, 2025.

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  1. Tim1

    Tim1 New Member

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    Occasionally when we start up our 2007 Prius, none of the instrument lights come on the dash. We had this checked out at the dealer and they are going to charge over $800 to replace the cluster assembly. I don't want to pay this much, and I wonder if there is any reason this must be replaced for the car to operate. We've been living with this intermittency for over 2 years now and, while a nuisance, hasn't caused any problems with the car's operation that we are aware of. Aside from allowing the driver to see speed, gas tank level, odometer, etc, is there any other reason that the cluster assembly would need to be replaced for the car to function? If not, I will probably opt to just keep living with the occasional blackouts.
     
    #1 Tim1, Feb 19, 2025
  2. Brian1954

    Brian1954 Senior Member

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    #2 Brian1954, Feb 20, 2025
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  3. mr_guy_mann

    mr_guy_mann Senior Member

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    Well, when the dash (Combination Meter) does not work, that usually means that none of the warning lights can function. So you won't know if some system has a fault (or that you left the parking brake partially on).

    As things "get worse", the car may not turn on or off correctly (the computer or ecu in the CM is necessary for that).

    I don't know the rules where you live, but here in New Jersey a car will fail state emissions inspection if the odometer is inoperative.

    Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
     
    #3 mr_guy_mann, Feb 25, 2025
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  4. MAX2

    MAX2 Active Member

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    How do you determine the speed? By eye?
    What is the fine for not observing the established speed?
     
    #4 MAX2, Feb 26, 2025
  5. MCCOHENS

    MCCOHENS Member

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    Smartphones can be loaded with an app to show MPH and maybe even miles per trip.
     
    #5 MCCOHENS, Feb 26, 2025
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