Gauge Cluster Recall

JDM85 · November 14, 2007

I received a recall letter on my gauge cluster yesterday. Did GM just start recalling them. I just had mine repaired by a independant shop last week but they told me that I could reimbursed.

MS3DALE · November 14, 2007

Its not a recall but a "Special Policy" bulletin,Heres a copy of it,The reimbursement info is at the bottom...

Document ID# 2037454

Subject: Special Coverage Adjustment-Instrument Panel Cluster Gauge Needle Functions #07187A - (11/08/2007)

Models: 2003-2004 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT

2003-2004 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE

2003-2004 GMC SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL

THE SERVICE PROCEDURE IN THIS BULLETIN HAS BEEN REVISED. IN A SMALL NUMBER OF VEHICLES, THE GAUGE SWEEP TEST MAY NOT ALWAYS CONFIRM THE CONDITION. PLEASE REVIEW THE SERVICE PROCEDURE IMMEDIATELY.

DUE TO PART AVAILABILITY, THIS SPECIAL COVERAGE IS BEING ADMINISTERED IN PHASES. YOU WILL BE NOTIFIED AS EACH ADDITIONAL PHASE IS RELEASED.

CUSTOMERS ARE BEING INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT THE DEALERSHIP TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT IF THEY BELIEVE THEIR VEHICLE HAS THIS CONDITION. THE CUSTOMER IS BEING ASKED TO PROVIDE THE VIN SO THE IPC CAN BE ORDERED IN ADVANCE OF THE SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT. THIS WILL ELIMINATE THE NEED TO KEEP THE VEHICLE OVERNIGHT. DEALERS ARE TO OBTAIN THE VEHICLE MILEAGE WHEN SCHEDULING A SERVICE APPOINTMENT. THE VEHICLE MILEAGE WILL BE REQUIRED WHEN PLACING AN ORDER FOR THE IPC.

Condition

Some customers of 2003-2004 model year Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, and Tahoe; and GMC Sierra, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles have reported that one or more of the instrument panel (IP) cluster gauges stick, flutter, or become inoperative. This may cause inaccurate readings, including the speedometer and fuel gauge.

Special Coverage Adjustment

This special coverage covers the condition described above for a period of 7 years or 70,000 miles (110,000 km), whichever occurs first, from the date the vehicle was originally placed in service, regardless of ownership.

Dealers are to replace the instrument panel cluster after the condition has been verified. The repairs will be made at no charge to the customer.

For vehicles covered by Vehicle Service Contracts, all eligible claims with repair orders on or after September 28, 2007 are covered by this special coverage and must be submitted using the labor operation codes provided with this bulletin. Claims with repair orders prior to September 28, 2007, must be submitted to the Service Contract provider.

Vehicles Involved

Involved are certain 2003-2004 model year Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, and Tahoe; and GMC Sierra, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles built within the following VIN breakpoints:

YEAR

DIVISION

MODEL

FROM

THROUGH

2003

Cadillac

Escalade

3R100001

3R320163

2004

Cadillac

Escalade

4R100006

4R323240

2003

Cadillac

Escalade ESV

3G117982

3G348029

2004

Cadillac

Escalade ESV

4G100001

4G343605

2003

Cadillac

Escalade EXT

3G100002

3G343890

2004

Cadillac

Escalade EXT

4G100005

4G343604

2003

Chevrolet

Avalanche

3G100001

3G347428

2004

Chevrolet

Avalanche

4G100011

4G344788

2003

Chevrolet

Silverado

31100001

31412794

2003

Chevrolet

Silverado

3E100001

3E381150

2003

Chevrolet

Silverado

3F100001

3F259060

2003

Chevrolet

Silverado

3M100001

3M112290

2003

Chevrolet

Silverado

3Z100001

3Z361857

2004

Chevrolet

Silverado

41100005

41435572

2004

Chevrolet

Silverado

4E100001

4E403760

2004

Chevrolet

Silverado

4F100001

4F269046

2004

Chevrolet

Silverado

4M100006

4M112271

2004

Chevrolet

Silverado

4Z100002

4Z353683

2003

Chevrolet

Suburban

3G100007

3G348254

2003

Chevrolet

Suburban

3J100007

3J346322

2003

Chevrolet

Suburban

3R100004

3R319989

2004

Chevrolet

Suburban

4G100010

4G344801

2004

Chevrolet

Suburban

4J100031

4J333376

2004

Chevrolet

Suburban

4R100001

4R323241

2003

Chevrolet

Tahoe

3J100001

3J346326

2003

Chevrolet

Tahoe

3R100014

3R320162

2004

Chevrolet

Tahoe

4J100005

4J333379

2004

Chevrolet

Tahoe

4R100003

4R323252

2003

GMC

Sierra

31100002

31412793

2003

GMC

Sierra

3E100003

3E381153

2003

GMC

Sierra

3F100008

3F259040

2003

GMC

Sierra

3Z100004

3Z900320

2004

GMC

Sierra

41100001

41435571

2004

GMC

Sierra

4E100002

4E403758

2004

GMC

Sierra

4F100005

4F269047

2004

GMC

Sierra

4Z100001

4Z900747

2003

GMC

Yukon

3J100003

3J346327

2003

GMC

Yukon

3R100006

3R320129

2004

GMC

Yukon

4J100002

4J333371

2004

GMC

Yukon

4R100002

4R323250

2003

GMC

Yukon XL

3G100020

3G348252

2003

GMC

Yukon XL

3J100006

3J346324

2003

GMC

Yukon XL

3R100002

3R320042

2004

GMC

Yukon XL

4G100023

4G340744

2004

GMC

Yukon XL

4J100001

4J333378

2004

GMC

Yukon XL

4R100004

4R323210

Parts Information - U.S. and Canadian Dealers Only

Instrument panel clusters (IPC) required to complete this special coverage are to be obtained from the Electronic Service Centers. The vehicle mileage will be required when placing an order. Refer to GM Service Policies and Procedures Manual, section 1.5.9, for specific procedures. To eliminate keeping the customer's vehicle overnight, customers are being told to contact the dealership to arrange a service appointment and to supply their VIN. Dealers are to pre-order the IPC identifying the part from the Electronic Parts Catalog using the VIN filter so it will be at the dealership on the day of the scheduled appointment.

1. The customer will contact the dealership to arrange an appointment and provide their VIN.

2. Contact a GM Authorized Electronic Service Center to order an exchange and arrange for delivery of the pre-exchange product.

3. All units will be shipped FedEx Ground (US) or Purolator (Canada).

4. After removal of the defective unit, return the defective core to the Electronic Service Center using the supplied pre-paid Automatic Return shipping (ARS) label.

5. Failure to return the product within 30 days to the Electronic Service Center will result in a charge to the Dealer's Open Parts Account.

Parts Information - Export Dealers Only

For Export Dealers Only: Order appropriate instrument panel cluster from General Motors Service and Parts Operation (GMSPO).

Customer Notification

General Motors will notify customers of this special coverage on their vehicles (see copy of typical customer letter included with this bulletin - actual divisional letter may vary slightly).

Service Procedure

Important: There are pre-programming instructions for 2003 model year instrument panel clusters (IPC). In order for the engine hours to set to their current value when the IPC is replaced, carefully read and follow the instructions below. This information is applicable for 2003 model year IPCs only. An add time of 0.1 for the pre-programming requirement is published in the Claim section of the bulletin.

2003 Model Year Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Pre-Programming Instructions

Install the IPC. Ensure everything is connected properly. The replacement IPC requires SPS Programming and IPC Setup procedures to be performed. It does not matter which procedure is performed first.

Start the engine and then select IPC Setup. You must have the engine running before performing the IPC Setup.

Select IPC Setup. With the engine running, enter the appropriate mileage and engine hours.

Select "OK". Review the pop up asking you to verify the mileage and engine hours. Move the pop up out of the way if necessary to view the verification screen. This may require a click and drag of the dialog box.

Verify that the mileage and engine hours are correct and select "OK". DO NOT turn the ignition OFF until the engine has "run" for approximately seven (7) minutes. Allowing the engine to idle for this period of time allows the IPC to accumulate 1/10th of an hour and write the correct engine hour value to the permanent memory.

The engine must be running before set up is performed and run for approximately seven minutes after the user selects "OK" confirming their mileage/engine hour inputs. After approximately seven minutes, shut the engine OFF and complete the event. The seven minute clock starts after you select "OK", confirming the entries.

Note: Based on feedback from technicians, we are currently making changes to the "IPC Setup" application which will include several enhancements to the set up screens. These are scheduled to be released and available in TIS2WEB very soon.

Important: Only IPC conditions listed in the Condition section of the bulletin are covered under this special coverage program. In a small number of vehicles, the condition may be intermittent and the gauge sweep test may not always verify the condition.

IPC Performance

IPC performance may be affected by the following conditions:

• Cold temperatures

• Temperature fluctuations

• High humidity

• Driving over rough surfaces such as dirt roads or potholes

Customer Comments and Observations

Customers who describe gauge performance as jumpy, sticky, slow or erratic. Gauge performance may also be described as being inoperative or inaccurate. For example, for a period of time the speedometer may appear to move normally but be inaccurate and not return to zero (0) after the vehicle comes to a stop. This inaccurate condition may be more or less pronounced during the drive cycle and may, for a time, return to normal operation. A Tech 2 sweep test may not reveal the condition.

Perform a gauge sweep test to determine/verify that an IPC gauge is sticking, stuck, or inoperative. Using the Tech 2, navigate to the following screens to perform the gauge sweep test: Body -> Instrument Panel Cluster -> Special Functions -> IPC Gauges -> Display(s) Test.

• If one or more of the gauges are sticking, stuck, or inoperative. Replace the IPC. Refer to Step 2.

• If the Tech 2 gauge sweep test does NOT verify the condition but a customer's comments and observations include information that it outlined in the IPC Performance and/or Customer Comments and Observations section of the bulletin, replace the IPC. Refer to Step 2.

• If the Tech 2 gauge sweep test does NOT verify the condition and a customer's comments and observationis do NOT include information that is outlined in the IPC Performance or Customer Comments and Observations section of the bulletin, do NOT replace the IPC. Submit a claim for Perform Tech 2 Gauge Sweep Test.

Important: If the IPC is to be replaced, record the vehicle odometer and engine hour (where applicable) value from the original IPC.

Remove the instrument panel cluster. Refer to the appropriate vehicle IPC removal and installation procedure in SI.

Install the new instrument panel cluster. Refer to the appropriate vehicle IPC removal and installation procedure in SI.

J2534 Pass-Thru or Tech 2 Legacy Pass-Thru Programming Method for the IPC

Important: If Pass-Thru programming fails, call Techline Customer Support Center,A "Candi" module is necessary.

CALIBRATION INFORMATION

Do not attempt to order the calibration number from GMSPO. The calibration numbers required for this service procedure are programmed into control modules via a Techline Tech 2® scan tool and TIS 2 Web with the calibration update. Use TIS2Web version 8.5 for 2007 (available on 08/20/07). If you cannot access the calibration, call the Techline Customer Support Center and it will be provided.

Notice: Before reprogramming, please check the battery condition to prevent a reprogramming error of any of the modules due to battery discharge. Battery voltage must be between 12 and 16 volts during reprogramming. If the vehicle battery is not fully charged, use approved Midtronics PCS charger, a fully charged 12V jumper, or booster pack disconnected from the AC voltage supply. Be sure to turn off or disable any system that may put a load on the battery, such as automatic headlamps, daytime running lights, interior lights, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, radio, engine cooling fan, etc. A programming failure or control module damage may occur if battery voltage guidelines are not observed.

The ignition switch must be in the proper position. The Service Programming System (SPS) application prompts you to turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. DO NOT change the position of the ignition switch during the programming procedure, unless instructed to do so.

Make certain all tool connections are secure, including the following components and circuits:

• The RS-232 communication cable port

• The connection at the data link connector (DLC)

• The voltage supply circuits

DO NOT disturb the tool harnesses while programming. If an interruption occurs during the programming procedure, programming failure or control module damage may occur.

DO NOT turn OFF the ignition if the programming procedure is interrupted or unsuccessful. Ensure that all control module and DLC connections are secure and the TIS terminal operating software is up to date.

Verify that there is a battery charge of 12 to 16 volts. The battery must be able to maintain a charge during programming. Only use approved Midtronics PCS charger, a fully charged 12V jumper, or booster pack disconnected from the AC voltage supply to maintain proper battery voltage during programming.

Important: IPC Programming and IPC Setup are required after installing the IPC. First select IPC Instrument Panel Cluster from the Supported Controllers screen to perform the first calibration. After completing the first programming event, complete the IPC Setup. Select IPC/IPC Setup from the Supported Controllers screen. The odometer mileage and engine hour information (where applicable) is required to perform the IPC Setup. Follow the TIS2WEB instructions.

Important: For information about odometer mileage and engine hour setup, please refer to Technical Service Bulletin 07-08-49-015.

Reprogram the instrument panel cluster (IPC). Refer to SI and Service Programming System (SPS) documentation for IPC programming instructions, if required.

Claim Information

For vehicles repaired under the terms of this special coverage, submit a claim with the information indicated below:

Repair Performed

Part Count

Part No.

Parts Allow

CC-FC

Labor Op

Labor Hours

Net Item

Perform Tech 2 Gauge Sweep Test

N/A

MK-95

T5685

0.2

N/A

Replace & Reprogram IPC (inc. Gauge Sweep Test)

N/A

MK-95

T5686

0.9*

$20.00**

Add: 2003 MY Vehicles (Addt'l Vehicle Run Time)

0.1

Customer Reimbursement (Canadian & Export Dealers/US CAC)

N/A

MK-95

T5688

0.2

***

* Labor time includes 0.2 hours administrative allowance.

** The amount identified in the "Net Item" column represents the amount allowed for IPC exchange.

*** The amount identified in the "Net Item" column should represent the customer reimbursement amount.

Customer Reimbursement - For US

All customer requests for reimbursement for previous repairs for the special coverage condition will be handled by the Customer Assistance Center, not by dealers.

A General Motors Customer Reimbursement Procedure and Claim Form is included with the customer letter.

Important: Refer to the GM Service Policies and Procedures Manual, section 6.1.12, for specific procedures regarding customer reimbursement and the form.

Customer Reimbursement - For Canada and Export

Customer requests for reimbursement of previously paid repairs to correct the condition described in this bulletin are to be submitted to the dealer within one year. Repairs must have occurred within the 7 years of the date the vehicle was originally placed in service, or 110,000 kilometers, whichever occurs first.

When a customer requests reimbursement, they must provide the following:

• Proof of ownership at time of repair.

• Original paid receipt confirming the amount of unreimbursed repair expense(s) (including Service Contract deductibles), a description of the repair, and the person or entity performing the repair.

Dear General Motors Customer:

As the owner of a 2003 or 2004 model year Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV or Escalade EXT; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, or Tahoe; or GMC Sierra, Yukon, or Yukon XL vehicle, your satisfaction with our product is very important to us.

This letter is intended to make you aware that some of these vehicles could develop a condition where one or more of the instrument panel gauge needles may stick, flutter, or become inoperative. This may cause inaccurate readings, including the speedometer and the fuel gauge.

Do not take your vehicle to your GM dealer as a result of this letter unless you believe that your vehicle has this condition.

What We Have Done: General Motors is providing owners with a special coverage that extends the warranty on the instrument panel cluster for the condition described above. If this condition occurs on your 2003 or 2004 model year Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, or Escalade EXT; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, or Tahoe; GMC Sierra, Yukon, or Yukon XL within 7 years of the date your vehicle was originally placed in service or 70,000 miles, whichever occurs first, the condition will be repaired for you at no charge.

What You Should Do: Repairs and adjustments qualifying under this special coverage must be performed by a General Motors dealer. If you believe your vehicle has this condition, contact your GM dealer to schedule an appointment at a time that is convenient for you. Your dealer will inspect the vehicle and if the condition is found, your dealer will replace the instrument panel cluster. When calling your dealer, please have your 17 character vehicle identification number (VIN) handy so your dealer can ensure that the cluster will be available on your appointment date. Keep this letter with your other important glove box literature for future reference.

Reimbursement: The enclosed form explains what reimbursement is available and how to request reimbursement if you have paid for repairs for the special coverage condition.

If you have any questions or need any assistance, just contact your dealer or the appropriate Customer Assistance Center at the number listed below. The Customer Assistance Center’s hours of operation are from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM, EST, Monday through Friday.

Division

Number

Text Telephones (TTY)

Cadillac

1-866-982-2339

1-800-833-2622

Chevrolet

1-800-630-2438

1-800-833-2438

GMC

1-866-996-9463

1-800-462-8583

Guam

1-671-648-8650

Puerto Rico - English

1-800-496-9992

Puerto Rico - Español

1-800-496-9993

Virgiin Islands

1-800-496-9994

We are sorry for any inconvenience you may experience; however we have taken this action in the interest of your continued satisfaction with our products.

General Motors Corporation

Enclosure

07187

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

sledr · November 14, 2007

So it looks like there is some reimbursement available if you have spent money to have this problem corrected already. My dealership covered the part but I had to pay 100 bucks in labour. If I am reading correctly, I'll get my 100 bucks back.

unit731 · November 14, 2007

OK. Not to be critical here, but is it necessary to 'quote' the entire post for a response?

Please, nothing personal here. That is a long response and done once would be OK.

sirjeffro · November 14, 2007

Got my letter yesterday (11/13), too.

Two weeks ago while at the dealer for other issues I asked about the cluster bulliten and the service writer said they didn't "know anything about that." Then, "mayber it hadn't been released yet." And that letters would be sent out "in stages" and I would "have to wait 'til I got a letter." Well (insert maniacal laugh here ) I guess I'll be calling this morning to set things up.

I'm really glad 'cause my truck timed out of warranty last June, but still has only 27k miles...

Later,

Jeff

beck11488 · November 14, 2007

I had mine replaced about 3 weeks ago under this on my 04 silverado, my truck is still sticking on the fuel guage even after the new one is put, the dealer refuses to replace again as they dont see it happen when it is in the shop. I dont know what i am supposed?

Draenor · November 14, 2007

OK. Not to be critical here, but is it necessary to 'quote' the entire post for a response?

Please, nothing personal here. That is a long response and done once would be OK.

Do you mean the bulletin above? The more info the better.

SalvageZR2 · November 19, 2007

Has anyone had theirs replaced with more than the allowed 70k miles? I got the letter last week, but have just under 78k on the truck (2003 1500HD). I've noticed the problem for quite some time (speedometer 'sticks' when decelerating and hangs ~5-10mph for a few seconds after coming to a complete stop). The dealer offered to take it in, verify the problem, and ask GM if they will pay to repair it; however they also said I would have to agree to cover the cost if GM says no (estimated $100 for labor to "check out"). Any thoughts on what my chances are with the $100 gamble?

jrrod2004 · November 19, 2007

Have you been a good customer to the dealership? if so then most dealerships would be willing to eat $100.00 diagnosis fee if then knew that you would buy from them in the future (New parts, Services or even a new car). If the dealership is not willing to eat $100.00 then I would take it to an ASE Certified Mechanic that has background in this area and let him determine what the root cause of the problem is.

chev9644 · May 1, 2008

Thanks for the posting on this topic. I just bought and 2003 Silverado with this problem and it has 68,000 miles. The speedometer was jumping so I found this post on here and took the truck in and got it fixed yesterday for free. If it wasn't for this site I probably would have passed 70k and had to get it fixed out of pocket when it quit working.

doneil23 · July 8, 2011

I know this is an older entry, but I just had my instrument cluster replaced by my dealer. It's a '99 Sierra with only 58K, and they charged me $650. They said it was too far out from the 7/70 extension, even though the truck only has 58K and still looks & runs like new. It doesn't make much sense to me. If they've already recognized the fact that they have a defective product, they should make it whole. What they should have done was to notify me as soon as they first realized the Korean made instrument panels are junk. Unfortunately, although it's the identical same panel, they didn't include the '99 Sierra in their special bulletin.

txab · July 8, 2011

You could gave gotten another one or gotten yours repaired for much less elsewhere. You got fWONked!

dsr611 · July 8, 2011

I know this is an older entry, but I just had my instrument cluster replaced by my dealer. It's a '99 Sierra with only 58K, and they charged me $650.

I hope you got a "happy ending" along with a repaired IC for $650. I had the IC in my wife's Tahoe repaired here locally for $125!!! I guess the old saying, "There's a sucker born every minute" is true after all.

SLW210 · July 11, 2011

To set the record straight, this wasn't done from the generosity of GM, it is a settlement of a class action lawsuit. GM Class-Action

I just bought a GPS with speed for a little over $100 for a speedometer. The problem is the stepper motor that is used on all the gauges. This can be repaired cheaply if you know how to solder. And as noted there are several places that will repair them for a resonable price, but you need to make sure they are not using the same defective stepper motors.