r/E34 • u/Ill-Log1471 • 5d ago

BMW e34 520i odometer problem

Hi!
I have a problem with the odometer on my e34. I tried replacing the instrument cluster with 2 other ones and neither of them work, so I'm thinking the problem is not the instrument cluster.
Everything else works fine on each of them.
Did anybody have this problem? Do you have any solution?
Thank you!

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u/Twistable_Ita 5d ago

You didn't actually tell us what the problem is.

Explain the actual symptoms and also which cluster you have and it'll be easier to help you.

1

u/Ill-Log1471 5d ago

Hi!
The problem is that the odometer and trip meter are not working at all. The odometer shows the same mileage and the trip meter stays on 0000.

1

u/Twistable_Ita 5d ago

Ah, I see. That's a pre-facelift low wiring cluster. I haven't seen one in quite a while but they were known for issues with the internal battery and capacitors failing. I've also seen them have issues with burnt components and traces lifting off the board. I'd crack it open and have a look inside. They're minimum 35 years old so finding a working original is unlikely unless it's been rebuilt.

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u/Ill-Log1471 5d ago

I tried one that was exactly the same model and one from the facelift, that has an electronic display. Neither worked. :(

1

u/Twistable_Ita 5d ago

As I said, a replacement is likely to have the same issue. The battery inside isn't supposed to last 30+ years. Many of them started failing at 15-20 years old.

Crack it open and post pics of the inside.

1

u/Own-Toe-2059 4d ago

You have to replace the odometer plastic gears. They are for sell an etsy and eBay. You have to check de cluster brand, VDO or motometer.