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Thread: 2004 E46 330ci convertible instrument cluster issues..

  1. #1
    Join Date
    May 2022
    Location
    Between Honolulu and Offu
    Posts
    45
    My Cars
    04 330ci, 98/02 SL500

    2004 E46 330ci convertible instrument cluster issues..

    Pixel issues. Need to repair or replace the instrument cluster. Dealership says. Have to buy from them new and they will match the millage. Too expensive. Tech says..if you replace it used from another exact model.... cluster will have a dot next to the mileage indicating issue.
    I am getting conflicting information. You experts can tell me. One shop says. Buy a used cluster AND the brain box from the same car so when installed...everything will match. Have to replace both as mileage is also stored in the brain module. Found a car...mileage on the cluster is about 1620 miles apart which is fine with me. What exactly do I need to buy? What is the brain box with the mileage stored called? Dealership tech also says the same thing...buy the cluster and the module. When both are installed, they match each other and no "dot."
    I'd like to buy the cluster with the orange needles if possible. If not, same style. Again please...if you know...what all must I buy from the donor car? Brain box module and cluster...where is this brain box module located? Appreciate your help.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Nov 2018
    Location
    La Habra, CA
    Posts
    1,117
    My Cars
    2002 525i
    I understand that you can't write the VIN to the IKE (cluster) because it's read-only as far as we're concerned. I think it takes an EEPROM reader/writer to change it. I understand if you buy a new one it comes blank (duh) and you CAN write the VIN and mileage yourself with PASoft. I've not done it so can't confirm. Here's an interesting thread. The last post of page 5 sums it up.

    https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...d-coding/page5

    BTW, if the problem is that the pixels aren't working, the pixels can be repaired without replacing the cluster. There are kits for DIY or you can send the speedo part to a company like bavtekinc.com and they'll repair is for about $159.00
    Current stable:
    2002 525i (Daily Driver)
    1994 SN95 Mustang 'Vert (The Bumblebee)
    2001 325i Convertible (Beach cruiser project)

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