Forum Discussion

Explorer

Nov 20, 2015

Oil Sending Switch Pt2

Just got back from the dealer. They were 99% sure it was the OSS. But. My truck is the 1%. They "hooked it up to the computer" and found that the cluster is malfunctioning and would like to replace it with a remanufactured unit. $625 est cost 12/12 warranty.

I asked about a stepper motor.... crickets. And, I asked about the extended warranty on the cluster another poster mentioned. That expired "for (my) truck in 2011".

So no help there. The good news is the oil pressure is fine. Seems a bit much to replace the entire cluster when one gauge is acting up. That being said, the oil pressure gauge is important.

My service advisor says he's the wrong person to ask about electronics. I'm considering a new dealership at this point.

Any ideas? Suggestions?

Appreciated as always,

cts

Tow Vehicles

13 Replies

covetsthesun
Explorer
Nov 20, 2015
I don't know anyone I'd trust who can solder. I can check to see what an independent shop might do. So, who ever does this...do I need to ask them to check the power connector to make sure it's secure?

cts
wnjj
Explorer II
Nov 20, 2015
If you know someone you trust who can solder, changing out the stepper motors is a DIY job and you won't have to worry about reprogramming the odometer and VIN.

The oil gauge may be bad now but any of them can fail so it's best to change them all while you have the cluster out. Parts are about $15-25 total

These clusters also can have loose connections at the power connector causing intermittent loss of all gauges. My dad's '04 had that problem, even after having a shop rebuild and replace the motors. I reflowed the solder on the power connecters and the problem is now gone.
Iraqvet05
Explorer
Nov 20, 2015
Walk away from the dealer and go to an independent shop. There are guys in my area that will repair your instrument cluster with new stepper motors while you wait for $100. Dorman also sells an entire cluster rebuilt for about $150
.