Cluster scrolling thru different languages

[NardDog]

So my cluster readout is starting to scroll through different languages and each time i start the truck it intermittently does this. Sometimes it will work normal other times it just gives me all the different languages it can use but wont let me change or choose. Anyone had this issue before and have an idea for a fix?

 

[Doubeleive]

So my cluster readout is starting to scroll through different languages and each time i start the truck it intermittently does this. Sometimes it will work normal other times it just gives me all the different languages it can use but wont let me change or choose. Anyone had this issue before and have an idea for a fix?

most likely cluster needs a rebuild, it's one of the symptoms. local guy fixes them here he went thru one I had like that and cleaned up the board, fixed some burnt lights. problem went away. Thought at first it might be the buttons but replaced all of them and same issue.

 

[justirv]

So my cluster readout is starting to scroll through different languages and each time i start the truck it intermittently does this. Sometimes it will work normal other times it just gives me all the different languages it can use but wont let me change or choose. Anyone had this issue before and have an idea for a fix?

There are a few reputable online options as well. Either send in your cluster for repair or order a replacement. On a replacement, Odometer miles can be programmed (due to the programming formula, it won't be "precise"). I requested my mileage to be greater than ***,***, as I didn't want to trigger an Odometer flag (DMV, carfax, etc.) on a truck that is rarely driven. Programming Engine Miles may be a challenge to some, and won't offer it. I would document all readings regardless. On my '02 Tahoe, I was able to drive around without the cluster, verifying speedometer readings with a phone map app, and making sure the gas tank was mostly "full". Most turnaround their clusters within a week.

 

[Tonyrodz]

Just for the heck of it--anything get spilled around the buttons? Something sticky maybe?

 

[NardDog]

Just for the heck of it--anything get spilled around the buttons? Something sticky

O yeah I spilled my beer on it last time I left the bar. Jk though no spills. I saw a Yt video that says that its static electricity build up on the circuit board and I could run my hand across to dissipate the charge. I will post up if that actually works.

 

[Fless]

If you get it apart take a soft brush and some isopropyl alcohol and lightly clean the board. They tend to get a thing called "silver migration" that can cause the traces to interact with each other.

 

[justirv]

O yeah I spilled my beer on it last time I left the bar. Jk though no spills. I saw a Yt video that says that its static electricity build up on the circuit board and I could run my hand across to dissipate the charge. I will post up if that actually works.

I don't recommend touching components on any electronic circuit board unless you have a proper ESD ground strap. @Fless has the right idea and suggestion. The PCB traces can get unperceptable corrosion between them, causing high resitance or direct shorts. "Gently" cleaning the board with an acceptable solvent might help. An old toothbrush or something comparable, and with little to no pressure may clean them up. These boards have a tendency to have "cold" solder joints as well, which can be re-flowed if you know what you're doing. If not, there's a good chance you'll lift pads, amplifying your problem.

 

[progar_]

O yeah I spilled my beer on it last time I left the bar. Jk though no spills. I saw a Yt video that says that its static electricity build up on the circuit board and I could run my hand across to dissipate the charge. I will post up if that actually works.

This trick worked for me when I had it happen. Its super simple to do and the cluster isn't hooked up to anything when you do it so there's virtually zero risk of you hurting yourself or the cluster. I was skeptical at first (as most probably would be) but it actually is a thing that happens. You could have your answer in 5 or 10 minutes. Its a minimum of 6 screws, possibly a couple more and you have the cluster out. Pop off the backing piece held on by tabs that go around the whole cluster and swipe your hand on the back of the board and then plug it back in to see what happens. This would also be a good time to check the cluster for any broken solder joints. My PRNDL indicator wasn't properly illuminating and I checked and found numerous solder connections broken loose on one end. Simple and quick fix to a whole of annoying problems.

 

[PPV_2018]

Its super simple to do and the cluster isn't hooked up to anything when you do it so there's virtually zero risk of you hurting yourself or the cluster.

It’s not “zero risk” .. if you don’t discharge static electricity before handling the circuit board you definitely could fry it.. but OK..

If you discharge any potential static electricity directly prior to handling the board, you greatly reduce any risk, but the best way is as @justirv suggested and use a ground strap to better be safe than sorry.