Replacing Gauge Cluster - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

Seadweller · 10-03-2018, 09:50 AM

I've got my original gauge cluster at a local speedometer shop who is attempting to trace down an issue that was causing it to flash on and off. He's not sure how long he'll have it, as it's something he's going to try and diagnose in his spare time. He's not even sure he can repair it due to the lack of diagrams and part ID's.

In the interim, I'd like to buy a replacement cluster so I can use the car. What I don't know is if I have to buy a specific cluster to work with my model year, build date, options list, etc.

What do I need to consider when buying a used cluster for my '98 base with Tiptronic?

Thanks!

redciv1 · 10-03-2018, 10:33 AM

Hello Sea, I replaced my gauge cluster on my 99 Base at the beginning of the year. From what I remember reading you can choose any cluster up until the year the design physically changed which I believe for us would be 2001. So you can pick up any 97-00 cluster Tiptronic cluster as the 01-04 look slightly different. I had no problems with the swap. I did not get the mileage reprogrammed yet as I have the old cluster if it is ever an issue.

Van914 · 10-04-2018, 03:22 AM

I have a 996 cluster for sale.

Seadweller · 10-04-2018, 04:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Van914

I have a 996 cluster for sale.

It that one plug-and-play? I thought it had a couple of extra gauges that required adding sensors or something to the car.

Thumper · 10-04-2018, 08:51 AM

Any early Boxster cluster (97-00) is plug and play for your car. If you have a tip, then you'll need the cluster from a tip equipped car.

Correct, the 996 cluster requires a different oil pressure sending unit, running a wire to the dash, etc. etc. But it's not difficult and the added gauges and OBC are nice