Intermittent Dashboard / Cluster Failure

[nosnibord]

Hi all,

I just picked up an old VW Bora / Mk4 Golf (X reg 2000) and am experiencing an intermittent cluster failure. The rev, speedo, temp, fuel gauge and mileometer freeze or fail sometimes and other times work perfectly. I can't see any pattern to the behaviour, seems pretty random and I've looked behind the cluster and can't see anything obviously wrong.

Before I send off the cluster to attempt a rebuild for £100-150, I'd like to find out if there's anything else I can try. I've seen someone mention pulling out fuse 15 as a test, but that's as far as the discussion went.

Any help would be appreciated.

Many thanks,
Dan

[Sam]

Welcome to VWAF

Do you have a Bora, Octavia or a Golf?

[rowdy-999]

Have you checked the electrical connectors?

[nosnibord]

Yes I have unplugged both and re-connected firmly, with the housings clicking into place. I can't see any signs of damaged cables either.

[nosnibord]

Hi, sorry - yes I have a 98-05 Bora but I thought I'd also post in the Mk4 Golf board because it looks a bit deserted in the Bora board and they are essentially the same car. I originally posted in the Octavia board by accident so feel free to delete that post but if you wouldn't mind leaving the other two that would be helpful.

Do you have any suggestions about my specific problem?

[Sam]

Hi, sorry - yes I have a 98-05 Bora but I thought I'd also post in the Mk4 Golf board because it looks a bit deserted in the Bora board and they are essentially the same car. I originally posted in the Octavia board by accident so feel free to delete that post but if you wouldn't mind leaving the other two that would be helpful.

I've closed the one without replies and directed people to this one - that should work.

Do you have any suggestions about my specific problem?

Rule #1 is a VCDS scan.

You've already checked connections so that can be ruled out.

Another common cause is a failed/failing connection between the LCD and the board - usually goes away when the car/interior is warm. Does that correlate to your random failures?