2005 Sunfire gauge cluster

[kiley]

Good evening all.
I have a 2005 Sunfire and my gauge cluster have failed.
First the heat gauge stopped working.
The tach stopped working about 2 years ago.
I drilled a hole and moved it to the far left so it wouldn't stop the speedo from working.
Then the gas gauge stopped working.
Thankfully the yellow warning light still works.
A couple weeks ago the speedo started acting up.
I plan on keeping the car as it run perfectly but its time to replace the gauge cluster.
I found a pretty helpful video online so changing it doesn't look like too much of a problem.
I should mention that this is a Canadian car.
I tried to purchase a new cluster from NAPA in Ontario Canada.
They informed me that I cant purchase a new one through them.
I was informed that I can only purchase one from NAPA in the USA.
I am working in Delaware and will be here for a few months.
Would I be better getting a used one at a wreckers here in the States?
Will it have KMS on it?
How much trouble am I going to run into trying to order a brand new one from NAPA USA?
I'm not really a big fan of getting one from the wreckers if its just going to fail me down the road.
If i go with a brand new cluster will the computer input the exact number of miles that have been put on the car?
Or will i have to have it programmed?
Is there a better spot for me to order it other that NAPA?
Sorry for all the questions but i want to make sure i get this right.

 

[EaOutlaw]

I have not heard many clusters failing like this, most intermittent problems are cured with a updated the software in the computer.

How many miles do you have on it?

As far as where to get one I would suggest going to a dealer and having them install and program it to work with your car.

I am not certain but I think the PCM retains the mileage and can be transferred over to the new assembly if a new unit is needed.

 

[kiley]

Thanks for the quick reply.
I thought Sunfires were notorious for having there gauge clusters fail.
I hear about it all the time.
Right now theres about 148000 kms on her.
See below.

 

[Zimgxp]

You could have new stepper motors installed. They are a known problem.

______________________________

 

[EaOutlaw]

After doing some research it seems Zimgxp is correct the stepper motors are a common problem for many GM products. ( thanks for sharing Zimgxp )

here is a video showing how to replace the cluster, I am not sure but the mileage came up on this vehicle and may not require any programming.

https://youtu.be/ZZzsCc3Gdqo

If your handy with a soldering iron, here is a video showing how to replace the stepper motors. I will add a little information to the video, old solder joints sometimes require re soldering ( adding solder to each connector ) to make the solder flow easier to the solder wick or if you opt for a solder sucker.

https://youtu.be/nkJBXP-2w8o

When using this type of solder wick quality matters do not buy the cheapest stuff you find, also before you use the solder wick spread the weave of wick by grabbing small sections of it with each hand and pushing together this will spread the wick out making it easier to heat and easier for the solder to flow to.

Once you use up a few inches of the solder wick cut the old used wick off the spool, leaving too much used wick attached will cause the wick to require more heat to work. ( too much heat will lift a circuit path wrecking your job)

But do not worry if you do lift a path the lifted section can be repaired with some thin phone wire.

But we will cross that bridge if you have a problem.

Just take your time and if you have a problem with a solder joint let it cool, and move on to another connector.

In the video the guy shows using a fork to remove the needle while this is creative I recommend using the correct tool.

Find a kit similar to this for your specific vehicle, it includes the motors tool and bulbs.

http://www.amazon.com/Rated-Stepper-Motor-Repair-Dr-speedometer/dp/B00INZ65B2

It a great idea to replace the bulbs while your in there who wants to take the dash back apart to change bulbs later.

I like and have had great results with Chemwick brand other companies may be just as good ( go by your gut and reviews )

The link provided is for a large spool you will not need this much to do the job, but if your into tinkering with electronics it doesn't hurt to have around for future projects

http://www.amazon.com/Chemtronics-Desoldering-Braid-Chem-Wik-10-50L/dp/B0019V5MAC