Questions about installing a instrument cluster

[wehrmachtoberst]

Ok yeah I am new. I thought this might be a direct way to get an answer. I am about to buy a instrument cluster for my 2000 beetle. Now the question is this: When I switch them out (yes the battery will be disengaged) is that it? The one I am getting is real close to the mileage so I am not worried about that. Should I be concerned about it not starting or anything with what I have been reading about, the immobilizer? I am fairly confident that I can do it, just want to make sure all the bases are covered..Thanks in advance!

[Smileybug]

You may have immobilizer issues. I'm not sure how to get around/fix that though, but I know you can.

You did get a cluster from a car with the same transmission right?

[wehrmachtoberst]

Yeah it is for the 1.8T manual transmission. I have called several places to confirm part numbers and such just to be on the safe side. You said I *may have* immobilizer issues. How do you mean? Something like this isn't just a pull, replace and fix is it?

[Smileybug]

I'm not entirely sure how all the immobilizer stuff works, where things are connected, etc. That's why I say *may*. I know there are other threads on this topic here as well. I didn't have an immobilizer on my NB (she was a '99).

What will happen if there is a problem due to the immobilizer is that you won't be able to start the car with your key. It will need to be programmed to match the new cluster potentially. But again, not sure how all that fits together.

Found this thread that may be helpful: Instrument Cluster Programming???

Also, make sure that the clusters are the same part number. Just because they are from similar cars, they could have different part numbers and from my little bit of reading on here just now, seems that you may not be able to reprogram them if they are different.

[Smileybug]

Also, just saw your other thread. I'd try to diagnose some more before you replace the cluster. You may have a fellow VW owner around you that has VAG-COM that can help you figure out if its your cluster or something else.

[IndyTom]

Originally Posted by wehrmachtoberst

Yeah it is for the 1.8T manual transmission. I have called several places to confirm part numbers and such just to be on the safe side. You said I *may have* immobilizer issues. How do you mean? Something like this isn't just a pull, replace and fix is it?

No, unfortunately it isn't that easy. You need to program the new Cluster with the New SKC (Secret Key Code). If you have the code from your old cluster and the new code for the new cluster than you can probably do it with a Vag com, otherwise the dealer will have to do it. They usually charge 100 bucks for that service. I think in 2000 it was a 4 digit code which changed to a 7 digit code in 2002+
It's easier to just swap out the faceplate unless there is something else wrong with your cluster.
Here is a link in swapping out the face plate:
Guage Face Swap - How-To