SL/R230: 2007 SL550 Speedometer cluster malfunction.
12-17-2018, 12:29 PM
#1
Junior Member
Thread Starter
2007 SL550 Speedometer cluster malfunction.
Instrument cluster interchange? i have to replace the speedometer cluster/head in my 2007 SL550. The ID # of my unit is 230 540 8747. I have been unable to find a replacement unit that matches exactly, however there are numerous units available for other ID#'s. Is it imperative that the unit ID #' match exactly? The other unit state that they will fit my car but i am not sure if it function the same. Any guidance is greatly appreciated.
12-17-2018, 04:32 PM
#2
Super Member
Welcome to the forum. We have a great and smart bunch of guys and gals here.
First question is why do you need to replace the cluster? Can it be repaired? I have replaced the LCD panels in my car because they were dim. Others have because they are faulty with 'pink shrimp' syndrome. (Google that)
Now to your other dilemma. You cannot replace the cluster with another and expect it to work. The cluster unit is 'married' to the car, and from what I understand a replacement must be 'virgin' or flashed in order to work on yours.
There are also companies that repair these clusters. I'm at work, so I can't do the search right now. But you could by using the proper key words.
Let us know how we can help.
First question is why do you need to replace the cluster? Can it be repaired? I have replaced the LCD panels in my car because they were dim. Others have because they are faulty with 'pink shrimp' syndrome. (Google that)
Now to your other dilemma. You cannot replace the cluster with another and expect it to work. The cluster unit is 'married' to the car, and from what I understand a replacement must be 'virgin' or flashed in order to work on yours.
There are also companies that repair these clusters. I'm at work, so I can't do the search right now. But you could by using the proper key words.
Let us know how we can help.
12-17-2018, 05:19 PM
#3
Junior Member
Thread Starter
R 230 2007 SL 550 speedo cluster issue
First. A huge thank you to kbob999. I have not considered a repair to my unit. I have been able to track down a speedometer cluster with the identical ID #, however, the unit has double the mileage on it. As far as the LCD display replacement goes, I have not been able to find one with the same product number (6526-90). I will continue to look for the LCD display unit and will keep you informed of any progress.
12-17-2018, 05:54 PM
#4
Super Member
gedsl,
Just so you know, the cluster, electronic ignition system (EIS), and probably a few more computers all have the mileage recorded on them.
This prevents mileage tampering, which is why you cannot simply swap the cluster. If you do, the cluster mileage will show "------" and it may not start or drive.
The LCD panels can be swapped, if that is your need. I wrote a DIY for LCD swap which can be found here: https://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-...l-lcd-diy.html
Again, let us know what the problem is, and we can help.
Just so you know, the cluster, electronic ignition system (EIS), and probably a few more computers all have the mileage recorded on them.
This prevents mileage tampering, which is why you cannot simply swap the cluster. If you do, the cluster mileage will show "------" and it may not start or drive.
The LCD panels can be swapped, if that is your need. I wrote a DIY for LCD swap which can be found here: https://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-...l-lcd-diy.html
Again, let us know what the problem is, and we can help.
12-17-2018, 06:22 PM
#5
MBworld Guru
If you do decide to swap the cluster with a used one, it can be done, but it's a two-step process. First, the donor cluster must have its odometer value zeroed. There are some tools that will do this, but most are too expensive for a one-time job, so you'll likely need to send it off to a specialty shop for that. Palo Alto Speedomoter is one, and another is Carolina Speedometer. Once the cluster mileage is zeroed, then it can be installed in your car and coded to it using SDS (Star Diagnosis System, the official MBZ diagnostic tool use buy dealers, and a few indy's and DIYers).
