How To Change Out A Cracked Dash Cluster

Do you have a GM truck or SUV? Is your dash cluster cracked or otherwise damaged? If the answer to both questions is "yes", then this tutorial may help you. You have two different ways to address this issue:

  1. Remove the dash cluster, have it fixed, and then reinstall it
  2. Remove the dash cluster and then replace it with a new one

There are many different things that could go wrong with a dash cluster. You can read about some of the most common issues in another ISS Automotive blog post. If your dash cluster is cracked, it may start having other issues sooner or later. And, it's an eyesore in an otherwise nice truck. So it's best to fix it or replace it as soon as possible.

It's actually pretty easy to remove a dash cluster from a GM truck or SUV. We'll show you how.

The Tools You'll Need

Tools

Before starting the job, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

  • Flat blade tool (such as a flat head screwdriver)
  • Phillips screwdriver (try to use a short one if you can)
  • Socket wrench and 7mm socket

How To Replace A Cracked Dash Cluster In A GM Truck Or SUV

Cluster replacement

We put together a set of basic steps on replacing a dash cluster in any vehicle. You can see these steps in this ISS Automotive blog post. Below, you'll find a tutorial on replacing a dash cluster in a GM truck or SUV. The steps may vary slightly between each model. Whether you have a GMC Sierra, Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Silverado, or another GM truck or SUV, you should be able to follow this tutorial.

Disclaimer: the following steps are based on 2007-2014 GM trucks and SUVs.

  1. Set the parking brake.
  2. Move the gear shifter on the steering column (if there’s one) down to the lowest setting possible.
  3. Tilt the steering wheel as low as possible.
  4. To the left of the dash cluster, you’ll see a vent. Use the flat blade tool to pop it out.
  5. With the vent out, you’ll see a Phillips screw on the right side of where the vent used to be on the dash. Remove it.
  6. To the right of the dash cluster, you’ll see a row of vents in a long panel. Remove the entire part with the flat blade tool. You don’t have to remove the entire part. You can only pull out the left part until you see the Phillips screw.
  7. Remove the Phillips screw on the left of where the trim piece used to be.
  8. Look above the dash cluster. You’ll find two more Phillips screws. Remove them both.
  9. Remove the trim piece above the dash cluster. It’ll pop straight out.
  10. Use the flat blade tool to remove the trim piece at the bottom of the dash cluster.
  11. You’ll find four 7mm screws holding the dash cluster in place. Remove them all.
  12. Pull the dash cluster out and then unplug it from the back.
  13. When you’re installing a new one (or reinstalling the dash cluster), put everything back in the reverse order of removal.

ISS Automotive's Replacement Dash Clusters And Repair Services

Cluster repair

Whether you've decided to repair or replace your dash cluster, we can help. At ISS Automotive, we offer:

  • Remanufactured OEM replacement dash clusters (find our catalog of replacement dash clusters here)
  • Dash cluster repair services (learn more about it here)

We're an industry leader that has been in business for over 70 years. If there's a company that knows GM dash clusters inside and out, it's us. You're welcome to contact us if you have any questions about our replacement dash cluster or repair services.