Common Stepper Motor Questions Answered

What exactly makes your gauges, well, gauge? The actual mechanism that makes that little needle move are called stepper motors. They are a small, yet crucial part of the gauges in your instrument cluster. The importance of selecting a high-quality stepper motor can't be overstated. ISS Automotive offers stepper motors that are a cut above the rest. Our stepper motors are constructed with durable materials and designed to last.

ISS stepper motors give you:

• A Tailored Fit - Stepper motors from ISS are custom fit to slide directly into the motor slot in your gauge. Your new motor will match the original fitment, and will install easily without any modifications.
• Quality Construction - Stepper motors are constant-use parts. The robust construction of our stepper motors means you get precise operation and a long life.
• Huge Selection - Instrument cluster gauge stepper motors can sometimes be hard to find. ISS Automotive offers a large selection of stepper motors for a wide variety of Chevy and GMC models from 1995 on.

Stepper motors can last the life of a vehicle. However, if you find you do need to replace a stepper motor in your instrument cluster, ISS has a huge selection to choose from. They are important parts, so quality and dependability matter. Read on below to learn the answers to some of the common questions we often hear about stepper motors.

What Exactly Is A Stepper Motor?

The stepper motor is the small electromechanical device that moves the needles of your gauges. The speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge (among others) are typically powered and controlled by stepper motors. Stepper motors convert electrical pulses into mechanical movement. This movement is what changes the needle position on your gauge. 

How Do I Know If A Stepper Motor Is Failing?

If your stepper motor is going bad, you'll likely see gauges that stick, jump, or give inaccurate readings. Your speedometer might not return to zero when the vehicle is stopped, or the fuel gauge might fail to show the correct fuel level. 

Is It Better To Replace Just The Stepper Motor Or The Entire Gauge?

This depends on the condition of your gauges (or entire instrument cluster), and the cost difference. Replacing just the faulty stepper motor is usually the more cost-effective option. However, if multiple motors fail or if the entire gauge or cluster has other issues, replacing larger components may be better.

 Can I Replace A Stepper Motor Myself?

It's crucial to handle the gauge very carefully to avoid damaging other components. There may also be calibration needed following the installation. For these reasons, we recommend having a professional complete the work. You may be able to do the job yourself, but you should consider the large margin of error. If you do decide to take on the job, make sure that any markings on the new gauge are oriented in the same direction as the old part. Taking a photograph of the old motor before removal is always helpful. You should also be sure to have your cluster inspected by a professional mechanic before you buy a new part to be certain the stepper motor is the issue.

Keep in mind that when you purchase a stepper motor from ISS, it does not come with technical support or installation instructions. ISS Automotive is not responsible for any damage that may occur during the installation process. If the motor replacement does not solve the issue, further evaluation may be required to identify additional concerns.

Stepper Motors From ISS Automotive

We've been providing auto enthusiasts with electronic and mechatronic components since 1949. Our parts centers meet the strictest quality standards in the automotive industry and are certified ISO 9001:2015. Order your new stepper motor online today.