Replace Instrument Cluster Lens (or entire cluster)

[ShooterMcGavin]

Hey Guys - I am pretty (extremely) new here, but am experiencing my first problems with my MKZ. I have a 2014, and the plastic lens cover to my instrument cluster has developed a crack. I took it in to get it covered under warranty and they "claim" that it was due to an impact and thus not in warranty. This is quite frustrating because I did not hit it with anything. I am about 80% certain it was caused by a previous repair to an air vent I had fixed under warranty, but the crack didn't develop until the last few months. They want to charge me $80 for the lens which isn't the problem, but they said the labor would be $250+ to make the fix. $330 for a piece of plastic? Cmon. So I wanted to look into doing it myself. 

 

So I have a few questions: 

- Does anyone know the part number for the cluster lens or where I could find it? 

- Same question for replacing the entire cluster... that sounds easier as it would be simply plugging in a bolting down a new cluster (but obviously should be more expensive)

- Is it worth to look into a salvage yard to see if they have any parts?

- Does anybody know of any videos or diagrams showing how to remove the paneling around the cluster? I don't want to damage anything poking around. 

 

Thanks guys, I really appreciate it!

[bbf2530]

Hey Guys - I am pretty (extremely) new here, but am experiencing my first problems with my MKZ. I have a 2014, and the plastic lens cover to my instrument cluster has developed a crack. I took it in to get it covered under warranty and they "claim" that it was due to an impact and thus not in warranty. This is quite frustrating because I did not hit it with anything. I am about 80% certain it was caused by a previous repair to an air vent I had fixed under warranty, but the crack didn't develop until the last few months. They want to charge me $80 for the lens which isn't the problem, but they said the labor would be $250+ to make the fix. $330 for a piece of plastic? Cmon. So I wanted to look into doing it myself. 

 

So I have a few questions: 

- Does anyone know the part number for the cluster lens or where I could find it? 

- Same question for replacing the entire cluster... that sounds easier as it would be simply plugging in a bolting down a new cluster (but obviously should be more expensive)

- Is it worth to look into a salvage yard to see if they have any parts?

- Does anybody know of any videos or diagrams showing how to remove the paneling around the cluster? I don't want to damage anything poking around. 

 

Thanks guys, I really appreciate it!

 

Hi Shooter. Welcome to the Ford Fusion Forums!  I'll do my best with what I can.

-You can get the part numbers and list prices for the lens and instrument cluster from the Dealerships parts department. Just ask. Then you can get competitive pricing from online Ford parts sellers and other sources.

-A new instrument cluster would also need programming by the Dealership. Not just a matter of plugging in.

-Yes, it could be worthwhile to source the parts at a Salvage Yard. Although with everything being electronic and computerized now, you'd be taking some chances. Find out any return policy beforehand.

-I'm not much help here. I would start by Googling "2014 Fusion instrument replacement how-to's" and similar phrases.

Hope this helps until someone else may jump in with more information.

Let us know how you make out and good luck.

Edited April 20, 2018 by bbf2530

[drolds1]

This post has been moved to the appropriate forum by the moderator.

 

 

I think the price they quoted you is quite fair.  The SM allows 2.1 hours of labor for this job.  IDK how much the hourly rate for labor is at your dealer but at mine it's $125.  I don't think you realize what's involved in getting the IC out but here goes:

 

1. NOTE: If installing a new IPC (instrument panel cluster), it is necessary to upload the module configuration information to the scan tool prior to removing the IPC (instrument panel cluster). This information must be downloaded into the new IPC (instrument panel cluster) after installation.

Upload the module configuration information from the IPC (instrument panel cluster) into the scan tool by following the scan tool on screen instructions. Record the odometer value from the original IPC (instrument panel cluster). If the odometer value cannot be obtained from the IPC (instrument panel cluster) (display failure), perform the diagnostic routine. If the value cannot be obtained after the diagnostic routine, the customer should supply the approximate odometer value.
 

2. LH (left-hand) side.

Refer to: A-Pillar Trim Panel See: Body and Frame\Interior Moulding / Trim\Trim Panel\Service and Repair\A-Pillar Trim Panel (Trim Panel.
 

3. Remove the FCIM (front controls interface module).

Refer to: Front Controls Interface Module (FCIM) See: Accessories and Optional Equipment\Entertainment System Control Module\Service and Repair\Removal and Replacement\Vehicles With - THX Audio System\Front Controls Interface Module (FCIM) (Information and Entertainment Systems - AM/FM/CD).

Refer to: Front Controls Interface Module (FCIM) See: Accessories and Optional Equipment\Entertainment System Control Module\Service and Repair\Removal and Replacement\Vehicles With - Touchscreen Display\Front Controls Interface Module (FCIM) (Information and Entertainment Systems - AM/FM)

 

4.

5.

6.

7.

 

Installation
 

1. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
2. If a new module had been installed, download the IPC (instrument panel cluster) configuration information from the scan tool to the new IPC (instrument panel cluster) by following the scan tool on screen instructions.

   

© 2018 ALLDATA, LLC. All Rights Reserved

 

As you can see, this can get pretty involved for the DIYer.   Before you  even get started removing the cluster, the FCIM has to removed, which involves some disassembly of the console.  There's lots of opportunities here to break or damage trim pieces and fasteners.  The A-pillar moldings are easy to break if you're not really careful.  Do you have trim removal tools?  I'm not trying to discourage you.  IDK your skill level. Just giving you a heads-up.

 

As bbf2530 states, if you choose to replace the IC altogether, data from your IC has to be downloaded to a Ford IDS tool and then uploaded to the new IC.  Your car will not start or function without this step. So, if you go that route, there's an additional expense.

 

I'd suggest you seek out a local shop that does speedometer/IC repair and rebuilding and ask them for an estimate to replace the lens.  There's a good chance it'll be less than the dealer Do an Internet search for your area.  These places do work for new and used car dealers and independent repair shops. IDK where you are in FL, but here's an example of a quick Google search:

 

https://www.yellowpages.com/south-florida-fl/instrument-cluster-repair

 

Just do this for your area.

 

Let us know what you decide.

Edited April 20, 2018 by drolds1