Hey all,

After doing some research on the site I couldn't find a thread answering my question (which never really happens) so I thought I would ask. I am wanting to install the instrument cluster like on the FX4 on my XLT and wanted to know if it was just plug and play or needed some modification.

The second question I had was were would I find a cluster like that for a good price?

Thanks,
Jon

 

i wanted to do the same thing on my 07 but with warranty issues and what not i would only let the dealer do it. i was quoted 400 bucks for a new cluster with the correct mileage and install.

 

Just saw one on Ebay for a decent price ($150) 2 days left. Correct mileage will need to be programmed by the dealer.
Ebay Auction

 

you also have to get one from a 07...other years wont work

 

The cluster will work. A dealer cannot adjust mileage, however, speaking from experience. (I work at a dealer) It is best to have the cluster installed at a dealer, because-while it will still work-you will have VIN mismatch issues between the modules, which will **** everything off. Also, try to stay with the same year as Ford is known for changing up the network between model years.

 

i just got a new cluster in my truck on wednesday, the mileage was exactly the same, so they must be able to program mileage......

 

There are numerous threads here and other boards where people have had the mileage programmed at the dealer. It is a digital read out, not an old fashioned odometer.

 

Can you explain what you mean by VIN mismatch issues? I have a cluster sitting on my kitchen table I want to install. Thanks.

 

I would be interested to know how they did it. Based on what I have been told by Ford and our supplier, the only way to get a cluster with the mileage being correct is to order it from them. I had a guy come in to get his cluster swapped, and was told that we could not change the mileage here and-upon calling our cluster supplier-that they would not change the mileage on a customer supplied cluster. Could only do it if he were buying one from them.

 

All of the modules in your truck, save the radio, reside on a module communications network. These also all carry your trucks VIN in their software. When replacing any of these "multifunction electronic modules", you must perform a programmable module installation procedure in which you download the info out of the existing part and upload it into the new one. If the old part is fried and cannot be read, you enter 'as-built' information into the new module. I am not 100% sure what will, or will not, work; but I do know, however, that you will at least have codes set for VIN mismatch between the modules. That is why PCM's, Anti-theft, ABS, and other modules are not simply "plug-and-play"

 

I hope this issue gets a right answer because i just got an fx4 gauge cluster for $50 and am going to try to install it this weekend

 

well i have no idea to be honest with you....i took my truck in and the mileage was exactly the same as i when i went in and they installed a brand new cluster, my old one the tach wouldnt work right, i idled at maybe 200 rpm anyway all i know is the doofy ford tech grabbed his circa 1991 laptop and headed back into the shop, other than that i dont know maybe if you buy a brand new cluster, like ford dealer only, warranty work cluster, they have the ability to let the cluster retrieve the mileage from the computer? i honestly dont know. i was going to try and con them into installing a fx4 cluster, but i wasnt gonna push my luck.

 

If you get a BRAND NEW cluster from the dealer it can be programmed 1 time for mileage...after that thats it...you cannot program an old cluster, no matter who says you can, you cant...ive been thru 20 dealers and they sall say the same thing. you need one with the same or slightly higher mileage, and have the dealer swap it out and reflash your computer.