Speedometer

[pallyo]

How do I fix the speedometer on my 2002 Chrysler Town & Country LXi 3.8L ? It recently quit working. The needle doesn't move but the odometer still works. Any info would be appreciated. Is it expensive to get fixed?

[fanbelt]

Hi,

I had some kind of gauge problem on my Voyager awhile back, my mechanic got a replacement instrument cluster from a salvage yard.

Don't remember the exact cost, it seems like it was 200-300 parts and labor. I could hunt up the invoice if you want to know the amount for sure.

[RIP]

You can try to reset the cluster by perform an instrument calibration. If I remember correctly, push the trip odometer and reset buttons in until the gauges react. The cal takes about 10 seconds. If it's still bad after that but, the speedo moves during the cal, it's a good bet the speedo is good and the problem lies elsewhere.

If that doesn't help try removing the IOD fuse for a couple minutes. It's in the fuse/relay panel next to the battery. This resets the body control module (BCM) which controls most of the electronics in the van.

Still dead? It's either the cluster, BCM, or vehicle speed sensor (VSS) on the tranny, or wiring. Since you're not complaining of shifting problems I would think it's likely not the VSS. If you go for the cluster, check the connectors contacts and solder joints closely. They are notorious for being subpar. An indication of this would be the speedo coming to life after you smack the top of the dash (common technique).

OBTW The dealer can determine the problem in minutes using a scanner.

[pallyo]

Thanks guys I'll try those little tricks when I get home. Hopefully it works and I don't need an instrument cluster. Is the (VSS) sensor easy to get to if I need to swap it out?

[vipergg]

Originally Posted by pallyo

Thanks guys I'll try those little tricks when I get home. Hopefully it works and I don't need an instrument cluster. Is the (VSS) sensor easy to get to if I need to swap it out?

Also as part of your troubleshooting go under the hood and find the IOD fuse in the fuse center under the hood and pull it for like 2 minutes , this will reset the bcm . If it all of a sudden just died it probably isn't the cluster , either the bcm is hung up or the cluster calibration neds to be run .

[pallyo]

Thanks RIP recalibrating the instrument panel did the trick. Thank you for saving me some money. Checks in the mail.

[RIP]

You posting your fix was payment enough for me. Glad to hear it was an easy fix. Cheers!