Dear Members,

I own a 1998 A4 quattro.
I have the following issue:

-my instrument panel is dark (no lights no gauges working) with the exception of constant brake and seat belt lights on.
When I use lights (parking, low/high beam and blinkers) the corresponding lights work.

Has anybody had this problem?
do you know how to fix it?
Can you post instructions on how to do it as well as parts needed?

Thanks
Bruce

 

Best case scenario, it's a blown fuse. Check fuses 3 and 10.

 

Thank you for your help.
it is not a fuse problem :-(
could it be the ignition switch?
Thanks

 

one of the fuses is not getting power.
mechanic said it is the cluster as the scanner cannot communicate with it.
any thoughts before I replace the panel?
Thanks

 

I wish I knew more elec related info that would be able to help.

Are there any relay's that are in the cluster system that would cause this to happen?

If the fuse is not getting power to send to the cluster, then I doubt the cluster is your problem. Track back(very difficult since its all wrapped up) from the fuse and find out where that wire leads and see where you can find power.

 

I'd suggest taking it out since it's two screws and taking a look at the internals by eyeballing things once you opened the case. If nothing shows up, at least you have ensured that the harnesses are tight when you put it back in. BTW, put a towel on your steering rack cover when you pull out the cluster. The plastic scratches easily.

 

also having the same problem was just gonna post about this .. havent found out where im going to order my cluster yet. Any more info would be great if anyone could help us out thanks

 

Where does the power to the fuses come from?
the ignition switch?
I am afraid the problem is before the panel.
BTW: the temp gauge works (bottom left).