Ford Escape Gauge Cluster Issue

[vaboom123]

I've run into an odd issues with the ladies 2008 Ford Escape (V6 FWD). I don't drive the vehicle much, but noticed the other day the Tach is stuck around the 5k mark. It will react with throttle and move past the 5k mark. It seems to use that spot for the normal idle position. Everything else in the cluster works, but the tach acts funky. I've read that the clusters have issues, but most will totally kill everything.

I asked her how long has it been like this and she didn't even know it was acting up haha. Just wanted to see if anyone had a similar issue. It doesn't bother her, but I like everything to work correctly.

-Battery is in good shape and connections clean/protected
-Charging system good

Any input would be great!

Zach

 

[NHGUY]

Bang the dash.lol

 

[vaboom123]

Originally Posted By: NHGUY
Bang the dash.lol


Haha, gave it the ford wrench tap with no luck

 

[Roadkingnc]

You need to replace the cluster, be prepared to reprogram the keys too

 

[antiqueshell]

How about disconnecting the battery and discharging the entire electrical system (with batt removed, turn key to acc and start several times), then leave batt disconnected over night.
Reconnect and see what happens.

 

[vaboom123]

That's a good idea to try and reset the system. I'll have to give that a try and see what happens.

 

[bdcardinal]

Originally Posted By: Roadkingnc
You need to replace the cluster, be prepared to reprogram the keys too


This is the best advice so far.

 

[vaboom123]

At least if the cluster needs replacement the father in law has worked at the same Ford dealer for 25 years. Maybe I can get a decent deal

 

[antiqueshell]

Wow, that is a LOT of money to spend for a gauge that the customer or owner doesn't even notice is not working and is not necessary for proper operation of the vehicle, I would try and reset the ECU or BCM by draining the system of juice, and see what happens first. If that doesn't work I would save the money and put it to better use or saving it for a repair that is critical to the proper functioning.

 

[jhMalibu]

Does the escape have a test mode? Did you try the gauge sweep in test mode? I don't know what it would really help, but it's just so fun to do.

Hold down trip odo reset button. Insert key. Turn key to on. Keep holding button until odometer displays test. Release button.

Pressing button will cycle through the functions. First or second function is a gauge test where the needles will sweep through their range. Might help determine if it is a mechanical issue with tach needle.

 

[antiqueshell]

Wow, I forgot about that mode in Ford products, great suggestion.

 

[vaboom123]

I totally forgot about that cluster function on Fords also. I believe my SVT Focus could do that.

I'll have to give the test a try and see what's going on with the cluster. I also agree it's not a big deal antiqueshell, and will just keep an eye on it. I just don't want it to get worse and have the speedo and other parts of the cluster fail.

Thanks again for all the great replies!

 

[artificialist]

If you look in a phone book, you might find a local "Speedometer shop."

The type of cluster determines the price, but I never saw any type of cluster cost more than $200 at my local place, I even saw a 1980s 300ZX display which is very complex.

Some new displays end up needing to be programmed before they can function. I don't know hoe much extra that is going to cost if you get an all new display.