I just picked up a used gauge cluster for my a4 b5. I `am sending mine out for repair. Can a cluster from a standard be used in a auto. I just did not want to park the a4 while my cluster is out for repair. Thanks for you help.

 

It can be used, but only after being recoded using VAG-COM or VCDS from automatic to manual.

Also you can drive the car without a cluster. In this case you obviously won't have information on engine RPM, speed, oil/coolant temperature, fuel level, etc.

 

Thanks for the info. My mechanic is right the road from me. He is a audi tech and has the equipment. Can the cluster be reset without being in the car? I know dumb question.

 

It can be reset while not in the car, but only by someone with more advanced knowledge of the specific EEPROM chips on the cluster circuit board. It's very likely your mechanic will have no idea about this.

Best chance is to plug in the cluster, then use VAG-COM or VCDS to make the change.

 

Don`t mean to beat a dead horse, but can I install the standard cluster and then drive it a short way to have my mechanic to do the change. I don`t know if I do this it will disable the car so I won`t be able to drive it over. Thanks again for your help.

 

That might work. The cluster doesn't "control" anything, it's merely used for displaying vehicle information. But it's possible that engine speed won't display properly. In any case it won't hurt to try!

 

Thanks very much, will switch the cluster out and see what happens.