instrument cluster intermittently works
 

i have a 96 e320 been trying to fix a couple issues and one is the instrument cluster intermittently works.it works when it wants to.i have checked all fuses good was wondering if this is common and what the fix might be.please ideas thank you

You will have to remove the instrument cluster to check the 2 cable connections at the back of the cluster. They may be loose. (highly doubt this though a that are special lever-lock type connectors.)
The alternative issue is that the internal flat connector ribbon(s) attached to the dial clusters inside the assembly are either loose or damaged. If this is the case, you would need to send out the cluster to a company that
specializes to instrument cluster repairs. I believe there are several recommended on the forum threads here - just do a search for 'instrument cluster'.

Here's an example of the flat ribbon(s) in the instrument cluster when disassembled. This is from a w202 c230K cluster.

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...c7cbb39eac.jpg

thank you very much khomer2 i will remove cluster and let you know what i find thank you.you wouldnt happen to know how that cluster is removed i dont see any slots for the MB cluster tools

Search on youtube 'w210 instrument cluster removal'. There are numerous DIY videos showing and explaining.
I havent had to remove one of these on a w210 (only on the w202 model) but it should be similar.



If you DO decide to open up the instrument cluster itself, take your time, laid out with plenty of space, and document with photos each step you take when disassembling each part, piece so you know how-to reverse it when putting
it back together. Some small pieces may slip out (namely the smaller display/face plate pieces). You'll know what I mean when/if you attempt it (so you will know how it is re-placed when re-fitting/re-assembling the cluster.
:)

thank you very much

An added note, there is a (special) tool you can use to remove the cluster, however, I did not use that tool on the w202 as it could see if any inadvertent slip of the hook-style tool could damage the finish (tear...) along the cluster/dashboard perimeter.
If you do use those tools, be cautious with them.

Anyone attempted a cluster repair using this tool? Different from the foam method and I dont want to send mine out, yet. Any videos on this repair?
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...0f97294313.jpg

I'm familiar with LCD connections - frankly I wouldn't attempt it with the the "kit" - (I would use a adjustable temp pro soldering iron w/T-tip as shown - from what I have seen off/on over the past few years - "most" folks who tried - failed at it - and had to send it out anyway.

You can test something - "most" W210's should run/operate without the cluster - so you might not be down/out when out/back for repair.

W210 cluster woes
 

I have the exact problem with my 96 E280. I've spent more than a thousand rand on three auto electricians, and have tried various second hand clusters, without any success. The situation is actually worse than it was, since only some dials work now, when the IC decides to work. I've watched a you tube video where the guy addresses the "tired" spring on the speedo stepper motor, but I don't believe I have the eyesight, steady hand or patience to attempt such a task. Does anyone know of a person in the Cape who would be able to repair/replace this problem? I read in a very old post that a Capetonian, Russel Ormerond, claimed that he knew how to resolve this problem, but everything I find on him is dated.