2005 Suburban -- In the instrument cluster some leds are burned out and the DIC is barely readable. Thought I'd buy a used working cluster instead of having mine repaired. But I'm wondering if having a different VIN will cause a problem with the ECM. Does the ECM read the vin from the cluster and then make decisions based on what that vin tells the ecm about the engine and transmission? If it does, then there could be a problem. If it doesn't then I'd probably be ok using a used cluster with a different vin.

 

I tried swapping mine (2006 Yukon XL Denali) and the car refused to start. My mechanic later told me the vehicle ID is stored in the cluster & compared to what the ECM has. The replacement cluster needs to be programmed in order to work properly. I'd suggest repairing the old one. Youtube video's are a good source of info on how to.... or you can have it repaired if not good at soldering. Local shops are about $150 and ebay has listings also. I've dealt with Tanin and had good luck. The car drives ok without the cluster in place.

 

Thank you Little Jimmy. That's what I was afraid of.