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7. Instruments

Fig. 7-1 is an exploded view of the instrument cluster. A flexible printed circuit is used in place of the numerous wires and connectors that would otherwise be required to connect the instruments and switches. Power and electrical signals to the instruments are supplied from the main wiring harness to wire terminal housings on the printed circuit. Depending on the model year there may be one or two terminal housings. Jetta models up to late 1989, and 1985 through 1989 Golf and GTI models have two terminal housings. Jettas from late 1989, and Golf and GTI models from 1990 have one housing.

Fig. 7-1. Exploded front view of instrument cluster used on models with digital clock or multifunction indicator. Models with analog clock are similar. Depending on model year, flexible printed circuit may have one or two wire terminal housings. All of the components shown are available separately as replacement parts.

In addition to the visible instruments, the instrument cluster also houses one or more electronic control units. 1985-1989 models have an electronic control unit for the oil pressure warning system and, on certain models, a separate electronic control unit for the multifunction indicator. 1990 and later models have a single electronic control unit for the oil pressure warning system, low coolant level indicator, tachometer and multifunction indicator. These control units are not repairable and should be replaced if faulty.

NOTE -

Instrument cluster components for 1990 and later models are not interchangeable with components from earlier models.

Troubleshooting or repair of the instrument cluster is easiest with the cluster removed. Removal of the instrument cluster, as well as replacement of the speedometer drive gear and cable, are described in BODY AND INTERIOR.

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