Removed instument cluster

[3twenty8is]

Today I replaced the bulbs in my instrument cluster. My steering wheel does not tilt (like most e36) it's so hard to remove the cluster without removing the wheel. But with a little patients I got it done but now none of my alerts lights check control lights and what not light up. I think I might have left something unplugged.

Matt smith

[wbarfels]

Sounds like you did.....They latch in a certain way, with the latch locking in when you push the plug in. For me it's a crapshoot getting it out without removing the wheel, and the wheel is sooooo easy to take off. 4 screws and and a 16mm socket, no special tools.

[mynameisBMW]

Sorry, I was hijacking the thread... I removed it.

[wbarfels]

I just had this come up when I went to have my smog check. There is a fuse in the engine compartment box that handles the check engine and other lights in the cluster, but not all. If your standing in front of the drivers wheel with the hood up, and fuse lid off, it will be one of the fuses closest to you and on your bottom right.

Also Most E36 cars in North America do not have tilt after 94. there are a few running around who do, but the DOT decided the E36 needed an extra bar and plate welded under the steering column, and that pretty much kills the steering wheels ability to come down very far.

Also I Broke one of my clusters trying to get it off with the wheel on. Like I said the wheel comes off so easy on these cars. Just 2 torx screws from behind to get the airbag off, then a 16mm bolt that comes off with a 3/8 ratchet and extension and your wheels off (just remember to unplug the battery first so you dont get and SRS light)

[Yanesdaves]

As long as you're putting the same cluster back in, you should be fine. I had to swap clusters back and forth a few years ago, and I ended up throwing an airbag light.