Upgrade Instrument Cluster [Custom Cluster Upgrades]

Upgrade Instrument Cluster

Can you upgrade an instrument cluster?

Yes, you can. There are a variety of upgrades out there for gauge clusters and some even do a full "digital" upgrade so the numbers actually change to different values when you adjust the dials.

Here are some common upgrade options:

  • Trans Temp Gauge is a good upgrade if you are running a performance transmission because the factory analog gauge tends to be very inaccurate.
  • A boost gauge kit is a very common upgrade primarily for turbo or supercharged cars. These kits add a spot to the inside of your instrument cluster in which you mount a gauge. The benefit of this is that you will have a nice digital display to show how much boost you are making along with your factory tachometer.
  • The AIT (Air intake temp) is also another very popular upgrade. These give your car a digital readout of the air intake temperature so you know exactly what the air is doing.

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custom gauges
GMC Custom gauges

Custom gauges are a very popular upgrade for the GMC Sierra and Silverado trucks.

These gauges add a whole new look to the instrument cluster and can be customized to match the color of your truck. They usually include a boost gauge, oil pressure gauge, and install GPS location on the display.

You can also change from stock blue needles to white needles, or even add colored LED lighting. Face plate changes are also available to give your truck an entirely new look.


Does changing instrument cluster change mileage?

No, changing the instrument cluster will not change your car's mileage. The only way to change your mileage is by changing the factory engine computer.


Does changing instrument cluster change performance?

No, changing the stock instrument cluster will not change your car's performance.

You can alter your car's performance by changing the factory engine computer or by installing a performance chip.


Can you put any gauge cluster in any car?

No, not really. All clusters are vehicle specific so the only way you can put one in your car is if it was made for your car.

This means that if someone takes out a Honda Civic cluster and puts it into their Subaru Impreza, the speedometer will read incorrectly because it is not made for that car.

The only way you can have cluster swaps done is by having the same type of instruments in both cars, ie. speedometer, tach, oil pressure, fuel level, etc.

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How much does it cost to replace the instrument cluster?

It will cost you anywhere between $300 - $500 to replace your instrument cluster.

It is possible to do it yourself if you are good with a soldering iron but most likely you will have to contact a mechanic.


Can I add a trans temp gauge in my instrument cluster?

Yes, you can add a trans temp gauge in your instrument cluster.

Most gauges will come with the necessary wiring and instructions to get them installed.


Can I add a boost gauge to my instrument cluster?

Yes, the same with transmission temp gauge you can add a boost gauge to your instrument cluster.


Does a used instrument cluster need to be programmed?

No, the only time you need to have the programming done is when you are adding a cluster with different factory options.

If you are swapping out a stock cluster with a used one, the only thing you will have to do is get it calibrated.

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What are the symptoms of a bad instrument cluster?

There are many symptoms of a bad instrument cluster. Here are some of the most common:

  • The speedometer and/or tachometer stop working
  • The fuel gauge stops working
  • Temperature sensor readings are inaccurate
  • Warning lights stay on or come on when they shouldn't
  • Gauges start reading incorrectly
  • Lights go dark or dim
  • Sensors stop working
  • It is hard to read the cluster during the daytime
  • The needles move erratically or jump around

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is best to take your car to a mechanic and have them take a look at it.


How much is gauge cluster repair?

Gauge cluster repair can be very expensive. The cost will depend on the severity of the damage and whether or not you need to replace the entire cluster.

The average cost for gauge cluster repair is $200 - $400.


Is it worth buying an instrument cluster upgrade kit?

Instrument cluster upgrade kits can be a great way to improve the look of your car.

The cost of the upgrade kit will depend on the features that you want to add. Some kits can be as cheap as $30, while others can cost over $100.


How much does an instrument cluster cost?

The price for a brand new gauge cluster can range from as low as $300 to as high as $1200.

There are many factors that affect the price of a replacement instrument cluster. The more features you have, the more expensive your instrument cluster will be.

One sample is an Escalade-style instrument cluster with navigation and backup camera which can cost around $1000. Another is a simple direct replacement cluster which can cost as low as $300.