classicfordguy

Hey, folks. Thanks for the add. While I'm new to the forum, I'm no stranger to the F150. I've owned several since my first in 1981. I'm currently driving a 2005 XLT that I bought new. Got 160,000+ on it, and still going strong! I had something happen last night that I haven't seen before, and I'm hoping someone here can help. While loading groceries in it last night, I heard a few long beeps. When I got back in, I noticed that the Info Screen was blank. Still lit up in green, but no Odometer, Compass, or clock. Short of spending $500 to maybe $800 for a new one and re-programming, does anyone know of a simple fix? Any guidance will be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

2008__XL

Can't help with that, but worst case you buy a used cluster off eBay with similar mileage from an 04-05. Should be around $100 - $150.

They're plug n play on 04-05's for the most part.

techrep

iTrader: (1)

Did you try a battery disconnect

classicfordguy

No, I hadn't tried that yet. I have a friend that is a factory Tech Rep for Ford, and he says the display outage is probably the result of a burned out resistor. He advises to pull the unit, send it off for repairs, and re-install. A used cluster or even a new one would have to be programmed to the vehicle. Thanks for the input.

2008__XL

A used cluster would not have to be programmed. It will work. Many have done it.

Mileage will show what the other truck had though. That's where you'd want to get it programmed if that was of huge concern.

classicfordguy

According to my friend, it would have to be programmed. The VINs have to match, or the truck will not start. Plus, the mileage is of importance, especially if and when I want to sell the truck.

2008__XL

I'm sorry to tell you, your friend is wrong. That's not the case for 04-08 trucks. Mileage can be programmed if needed, or buy one with a few more miles and swap when your odometer matches.

I swapped my cluster. I can tell you the cluster works fine and the truck starts.

04-05 have even less features than mine and everything will work.

Again, your friend isn't going by actual experience it sounds like. He's either going off a different generation or he is misinformed.

2008__XL

Lastly, I'm not trying to force you to swap your cluster. I'm just telling you that it's definitely possible, easy and will work without issue.

Sending it in to be fixed is completely fine if that's what you'd like to do.

Ford techs go by the book when they haven't had firsthand experience. That doesn't mean they're right. They're just going by what they've been told.

Ford also states the bulb in our odometer is not serviceable and the cluster needs to be replaced. HA! that bulb is easily replaceable and will cost you less tha a couple dollars.

Dont believe everything a ford tech tells you.

classicfordguy

I appreciate your comments, but I also have the concern of the same thing happening again with a used cluster. I think I'll take my chances on a rebuild of the original.

Ftxgtx6494

Hi all ….
I have a 05 f150 lariat 5.4 nice truck so rather than buy during Covid I decided to restore the old gal !
the truck was off road for a while and when I got it back one thing to address is the speedometer not working local Ford dealer quoted me 4 hours labor for R&R and Programing and $606 for N ew cluster !!
YouTubed it seems like a simple job to R&R but can I have it programmed out of the truck or will I have to go to a shop who has the technology to Program it and then they will charge alot ?