Instrument Cluster Problem 1999 Boxster

[KFH2818]

I have posted this before but will try once more with a detailed description of the problem. Perhaps someone may have seen this before.

I have a lingering problem with the instrument cluster on my Boxster. It started

last year and has been intermittant ever since however now it appears to be a

permanent issue. I will describe as follows.

When I turn off the vehicle and remove the key from the ignition the odometer,

digital speedometer and clock remain lit and the hour number on the clock begins

to flash as if it needs to be reset. These lights will remain on until the

battery dies if the battery maintainer is not connected or I remove the fuse for

the cluster from the fuse box.

When the car is restarted the clock continues to flash for approximately 1

minuite and then it goes normal. It will stay that way until the vehicle is

stopped again and the key removed. ONLY WHEN THE KEY IS REMOVED DOES THE CLOCK

START TO FLASH.

I have removed the cluster and cleaned plugs and contacts, installed new ignition switch (twice), disconnected battery for hours at a

time but it always returns. No codes either.

Hopefully someone can put me out of my misery. There is no Porsche dealer here in Newfoundland or I would have been there.

[Loren]

What happens if you wiggle the ignition key?

If the symptoms change then you likely have a b ad ignition switch.

[KFH2818]

Wiggling the key does not make any difference. Beleive me I have tried. The ignition switch (electrical part) has been replaced twice with OEM.

[Loren]

You can try the same with the headlight switch and see if there is any difference.

Has the cluster been out for anything? A loose or not locked connector can cause the same symptoms.

[KFH2818]

Tried the headlight switch as well several times. I had the cluster out a few times while trying to solve this problem. Cleaning plugs contacts etc. No change.

The only thing that seems to work is to pull Fuse B10 and leave it out for a couple of days. When replaced the cluster behaves itself for a few days then the problem comes back.

Driving me nuts.

[wvicary]

Sounds like an internal fault in the cluster.

[KFH2818]

I'm thinking so as well. Any idea where I can get one for a Tip?

[wvicary]

nineapart is a autowrecker located in eastern Canada so give them a try.

[KFH2818]

I also just noticed that while the clock is flashing I do not get the oil level indicator as I should when the vehicle is started.

[KFH2818]

I replaced the instrument cluster and solved the problem. Got a used one on e-Bay for $200.

[Novice Boxster Owner]

I plan to replace my 1998 Boxster instrument cluster with a used one I get from EBay.  Does anyone  know if the mileage on my current cluster carries over and will appear on the replacement cluster or if the mileage on the replacement cluster will appear?

[Loren]

22 minutes ago, Novice Boxster Owner said:

I plan to replace my 1998 Boxster instrument cluster with a used one I get from EBay.  Does anyone  know if the mileage on my current cluster carries over and will appear on the replacement cluster or if the mileage on the replacement cluster will appear?

 

Check with your state laws - here in California you need to document your current mileage and the mileage on the replacement.  It is intended to show the car's true mileage when re-sold. So, no the mileage does not transfer over (legally).