Electrics: Instrument Cluster fail and non starter

[Fatvolvoer]

So out today in my S60 pulled up switched off took the keys out and left the car unlocked with the windows down.

Returned 5 minutes later:

Couldn’t open the boot by the switch on lid.
Car didn’t respond to fob.
Put key in ignition all check lights and needles power up then go off and engine light remains lit.
Just a click when trying to start
Most of the electrics didn’t work only front windows did.

Called AA, chap tested battery Ok
Managed to start it by putting ignition on and bridging relay under bonnet, runs fine but no instruments, indicators, back windows, etc etc.

So well documented on here that cluster fails, I can get a repair local but reluctant in case this is not the issue.

But would this really affect starting?? and is there a cheat to get back windows up etc.

Thanks in advance.

[Fatvolvoer]

Update: disconnected battery, left 10 mins, reconnected and all working.

Suspect will happen again so still need to find out if cluster stopped it starting.

[RichT4]

Originally Posted by Fatvolvoer

Update: disconnected battery, left 10 mins, reconnected and all working.

Suspect will happen again so still need to find out if cluster stopped it starting.

What indication did you get that the cluster had failed?
I'm not entirely sure, but having the cluster out shouldn't make a difference with the central locking or anything.

In actual fact, the only issue I know of is the CEM.
Do you by any chance have a sunroof? Or is your passenger side carpet wet?

[Fatvolvoer]

The AA chap brought up the problem on his info system and that it was a common fault.

After he got it started the only thing on the cluster was the engine light, all other lights and needles dead.

When I looked up this on this forum it suggests the cluster is failing.

When I reconnected the battery the first message was the urgent airbag service needed.

I don’t have a sunroof but will check the carpet. Thanks.