[Qmulus]

FWIW, I have been designing, building and repairing automotive electronics for 20+ years. I have done everything from designing systems that were line fit on major auto manufacturers' vehicles to working with pro racing teams on electronics integration. It is my business and sometimes hobby.

I would first verify that you have the connectors fully engaged in the cluster. It is very possible and very common to only get the connector partially connected if you do not have the engagement lever fully flipped to the open position when you insert the harness side connector into the cluster connector housing. That can lead to issues like what you are experiencing.

If the problem is with the cluster, it is almost certainly repairable. This issue sounds very consistent and repeatable, so it shouldn't be hard to find.

As to programming, anything is technically possible, but the issue is the legality.