How To Reset Your Oldsmobile, Pontiac or Buick Instrument Cluster

by Spork Marketing September 28, 2022

It can be extremely annoying if the instrument cluster acts up on your Oldsmobile, Pontiac, or Buick. Before you try taking it apart to fix it, try resetting it first. In this article, we'll walk through the steps to reset your instrument cluster and options for fixing it.

Why Do I Need To Reset My Instrument Cluster?

Instrument cluster error

Modern instrument clusters are all electronic and receive information from the car's onboard computer and electronic sensors. These sensors transmit information about the engine's RPM, oil pressure, engine temperature, vehicle's speed, and other data. Occasionally these electronics malfunction causing the instrument cluster to go haywire. Most of the time, the issues can be resolved by recalibrating the sensors and the instrument cluster using a reset process.

This article provides more information on why instrument clusters go crazy.

Steps For Resetting Your Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Or Buick Instrument Cluster

The following procedure works for most GM vehicles. Some of the steps are complicated, so if they don't work the first time, repeat the procedure several times before trying something else.

Start by turning your headlights on and off repeatedly. If you're worried about wearing out the lights, you can remove the 15 amp fuse for the headlight circuit. But first, check your owner's manual to confirm which fuse or fuses are for the lights.
Insert the key into the ignition but do not turn it.
While the key is in the ignition, press the instrument panel reset button located next to the odometer or fuel gauge and hold it.
Turn the headlights on while pressing the reset button on the instrument panel. Then turn the key to the second position while still holding the reset button but do not start the car. Next, do steps five to seven in sequential order while continuing to hold down the reset button.
Turn the headlights off, then on and off again. This must be done within five seconds of turning the key to the second position.
Now release the reset button and push it three times. This will initiate a diagnostic test on the instrument cluster and cycle it through the reset process three times.
Finally, turn the vehicle completely off and remove the key.

If the above process doesn't work after several attempts, try the following steps:

Insert the ignition key and turn it to the second position but do not start the vehicle.
Press the reset button five times.
Wait for the odometer to display information.
Then press and hold the reset button for thirty seconds.

If neither of these processes solves the issues, you can try disconnecting the battery for 30 minutes and try both procedures again.

What To Do If You Can't Reset Your Instrument Cluster

Replace cluster

If you're not able to reset your instrument cluster, you can either replace it or have it repaired. No matter which option you chose, ISS Automotive will also reprogram the new or rebuilt instrument cluster, including inputting the correct VIN and mileage info from your car.

ISS Automotive has over 70 years of experience distributing and remanufacturing automotive electronic and mechatronic components. We offer a limited lifetime warranty on all remanufactured and repaired electronic products and provide a fast turnaround with free shipping on orders over $99.