Instrument cluster failed

I have a 1992 325is, the instrument cluster works fine in the morning but the second time I start the car it goes out (speedometer, RPMs, gas, and temp) The Odometer is out too but says " Code" all the other lights work. I asked my Mechanic but he doesn't seem to know why it's doing that. He suggest it might have something to do with the ignition switch? So far if it sits over night it all works the next day until the second time it's turned on. Any help would be appreciated.

the cluster in E36 's isn't servicable, unfortunately, and it's the most likely cause of your problem if everything else in the car is working ok. early clusters had a seperate 'coding plug' if i remember right, but all replacemants are built in. if you replace your cluster with a used one it may have to be coded to your car. good luck......

My Mechanic seems to think that the the plug to the cluster is not getting great contact, which is why it's going out. Is that something I can check myself? Also, I've noticed when I turn the car off but leave the key in the ignition, in the off position and then restart, the problem goes away. Although I can't just leave the key in the car all the time.

unfortunately, the chances of the coding plug or the contacts it makes being the problem are really slim [next to nil]. a good used cluster will work in the car, the VIN # will just show up wrong if it's ever checked [no big deal]. good luck...........jb.

I changed all the fuses and it works fine now. Who knew?

you did ! keep it simple first !

Just when I thought everything was okay. Two months later and a trip across the country my instrument cluster failed again, same symptoms as before. I thought perhaps dirt was getting in the fuse box. I pulled the fuses and used an air canister to get any dirt out that might be there. It worked, so I thought. Next day cluster failed again. The following day everything came back on BUT my odometer has zero miles. Any suggestions on what could be going on would be appreciated. Cluster is still not working.