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[Qsilver7]

Originally Posted by sv1cec

...you got made me curious, I am going to see if there is a right button. And by the way, what do you mean by LOCKED and UNLOCKED cluster?

Many thanks partner, much appreciated!

There are up to 21 "hidden" tests that can be accessed when the instrument cluster has been UNLOCKED. These tests aren't for the general public...but do allow you to check/see some of the functions plus input/outputs of the IKE (instrument cluster electronics).

To UNLOCK the cluster...you have to add up the last 5 digits of your VIN...this will be the integer required in TEST 19. Once you've unlocked the high instrument cluster...it will remain UNLOCKED if you want to access any of the other TESTs. Just press & hold the right instrument cluster button until TEST 1 appears...then follow the instructions to the other tests.

These test can come in handy for observing things like TEST 7 (coolant temperature)...you can see the actual temp (in Celsius) rise and know to stop and pull over BEFORE the temp gauge needle goes into the red. Or if you are having electrical issues...you can check the battery's voltage doing TEST 9 (ignition in position 1 or 2) or the alternator/charging system's voltage (engine running).

(ignore that the heading says E38...it applies to the high cluster for the e38/e39/e53 & e46)