I really need some guidance on this one! The instrument cluster lights (brake warning lights, gas lights, etc) all work on my '97 E420... but the gauges do NOT!

It doesn't indicate RPM, speed, gas, or radiator temperature. The needles just sit on the bottom.

I used to get the lamp warning light, but I've replaced a bulb, so the warning is gone. I've also checked the ground wires behind the dash... but they seem tight.

Any ideas? I've posted on other websites, but no one knows anything.

Perhaps all the "gifted MBZ" do-it-yourselfers watch THIS board!!

Thanks!
Mike

Here's a quick update: I had the tires rotated Saturday (8/11) and when I got in the car to drive it home... the instrument cluster (speedo, tach, gas) needles worked! Yahoo!

But when I started it up the next morning, none of the needles worked.

So i'm betting on a loose connection. I've checked the 2 harnesses on the back of the cluster and I've checked the connections to the HVAC control. Any ideas? This is really driving me crazy.

Thanks!
M-

same problem here, did u finally solve this problem???

I am having the same problem-- but it is intermittent. Gauges work in the morning (when it is cooler?) then the needles die later in the day. They don't die while car is running, just don't start up with the car later. Any ideas?

rhcoleman, I still have insturment cluster for 1997 E-320 sitting in my garage. If you are interested in, please e-mail me.

https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...ighlight=hadam

One of the gages are gone. If you look closely you will see one of them is jumping FUEL, MPH, RPM......"on mine it was the fuel gage". Time to buy a new one!!!