S60 Electrics: Access to dash panel? Bad connection?

[schooleydoo]

For the past couple of days, the instrument cluster on my S60 has been cutting out. When it first happened, it turned all the lights in the panel on, handbrake, engine warning lights, indicators etc but none of the needles moved - stuck at a certain speed/revs.

It happened whilst on the motorway, so I did the only thing I could do and whacked it! It came back and I thought whilst odd, perhaps it was a one off.

It has since happened again, and is becoming more frequent, i/e every 5 minutes. Bashing it does work, but its obviously not the solution I am looking for.

I am assuming due to the fact that physical intervention affects it, there is either a bad or loose connection somewhere behind the unit.

Two things have stopped me pulling it out, firstly the fixings do not appear to be in an obvious position and I don't want to damage any trim searching. I am hoping somebody can enlighten me to their location!

Secondly I am not 100% on my diagnosis and am wondering if somebody may have experienced a similar issue, although unlikely.

I installed a USA-Spec iPhone kit a month back and at the back of my mind, am wondering if drawing the power from the cigarette socket has somehow redirected the current elsewhere! Although this happens regardless of the phone being connected, I believe the box is always on.

All other functions of the car work as normal, indicators do physically flash even though not displayed on the dash, and everything in the centre column is unaffected.

[bluetownbarry]

Sounds like your DIM is screwed - do a forum search for DIM and you'll see a lot of advice. Common consensus is get repaired by a specialist (circa £200) or pay a stealer £700 plus for a new unit (you can't use a replacement from a breakers as they are coded to the indiivdual car).

[chiptivo]

Very common for dry joints on the circuit board behind the dials. Search for DIM repair/replacement.

If you are handy with a soldering iron do it yourself. If not, post it off, or drive to a specialist who will solder while you wait.

Quite easy to take out and put back in, again have a search for DIM repair on here.

[chiptivo]

Apparently this is the chip that causes the issues. Resolder the bugger..


http://www.loadmypicture.com/getimag...680.jpg&full=1

[schooleydoo]

Fantastic, thank you.

I tried searching, but without knowing it was called a DIM, didn't have much luck!

Off to pull it out now and attempt repair.

For anyone else searching, I will be following the instructions on this thread.

Thanks again.

[schooleydoo]

Quick question. In preparation for removing the DIM (and disconnecting the battery) I wanted to ensure I had my radio code. I apparently do not. I then called a Volvo dealership and the technician told me that my car did not have a radio code...!

I double checked both the registration, the model and that it is an HU-803.

It would certainly explain why I cannot find it in any of my documentation, but is this chap correct?

[chiptivo]

Originally Posted by schooleydoo

Quick question. In preparation for removing the DIM (and disconnecting the battery) I wanted to ensure I had my radio code. I apparently do not. I then called a Volvo dealership and the technician told me that my car did not have a radio code...!

I double checked both the registration, the model and that it is an HU-803.

It would certainly explain why I cannot find it in any of my documentation, but is this chap correct?

Yes, he is right. Just remember when connecting the car back up to the battery that the ignition is in position II (2).

[Chesterman]

No code. Not required as the radio is signatured to the car and therefore will not work in any other car.

[schooleydoo]

Repair unsuccessful, as here.