Several weeks ago I attempted to fix the dead pixels in the gauge cluster using the "disassemble and drill" method as others have done on this forum. Well, things did not go as plan.....I screwed up the needle motors and generally messed up the cluster. I considered getting a salvage yard cluster to save some money but you can not simply swap the cluster from another X5 into your vehicle without all kinds of issues including a tamper light. The clusters are hard coded with the VIN. I researched buying a brand new cluster (uncoded) from the dealer and have them code it. Turns out it would cost me at least $900 with core charge (they require a $200 core charge; you get it back when you give them the faulty cluster).
So, I called around, did some research, and discovered a place called North Hollywood Speedometer & Clock. They appear to specialize in older BMW cluster repair, notably BMW 2002 models. I called them, talked to a nice guy named Kevin, who said it would run about $675 for a full repair including testing. Seemed a little steep but he reassured me they only use OE BMW parts and guarantee it for 1 year. They price it knowing it is less cost than buying a new one from the dealer. I sent my messed up cluster to them and waited. It took about a week before they shipped it back.
They had to replace a few needle motors, the main circuit board, and the pixel info display assembly. I also had them replace the clear front cover due to a small crack in the lower center area. I received the cluster yesterday. It was packaged very well. It's wonderful to have a brand new scratch free lens on a vehicle with 114K miles!!! I plugged the cluster into vehicle, started up the car, and marveled at my like-new cluster. Everything works perfect. I can actually read how many miles it has.....that in itself is worth it.
I highly recommend North Hollywood Speedometer & Clock. Great people and excellent work. Yes, they are a little more cost but they do it right.
North Hollywood Speedometer and Clock Company. Serving your gauge needs since 1955. VDO, Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, Volkswagen, Veigel, Veglia
10-18-2011, 12:57 PM
Threaded Mode
