Instrument Cluster replacement

[leepoll]

Hi all
Sorry my first post is asking for help.
Anyway I have a 2002 Galaxy auto 2.8 v6 and it has developed an intermittent problem with the instrument cluster. Occasionally the speedo and rev counter stop working and the mileage shows as dashes.  I am assuming that this means that the cluster is on its way out.  So my question is, if I bought a second hand one from ebay or the likes would it need programming to my car?  Also is there anything I could try before this? Thanks for reading.
Lee

[Russats]

I might be wrong here but I'm sure you can just replace it. The point I'm not sure on is the mileage. I'm quite sure it will show the mileage from the vehicle it's been taken from.

[insanitybeard]

Be careful before just deciding to go and replace the unit, I'm sure I've heard a few tales where these kind of cluster faults were actually down to wiring issues- e.g, power supply, bad earths etc- don't just assume the cluster is knackered unless you can pick up a secondhand one of the right spec to swap it with and try out.

[leepoll]

Ok thanks for the replies Where would I check the earth for that?  I might just try cleaning the connectors and giving them a WD40 spray see if that does anything.
Thanks again Russats  & Insanitybeard.

[Mirez]

If you do end up swapping it out then it will physically plug right in but there are a few things to be aware of:

1) Speed Signal - this is the biggest headache when changing a cluster as there are about 6 variants depending on ABS, VSS, engine and year. Try to match the cluster to the engine and year of yours to minimise the chance of an issue

2) Mileage - this will indeed be the mileage of the donor car, you can adjust this easily using VagTacho and accompanying cable

3) Spec - Options such as low screen wash, brake pad wear and seatbelt warning's are all custom coded into the cluster. Again, easily corrected using VCDS and accompanying cable.