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2010 Escape blank LED odometer and driver information screen.

5.7K views 4 replies 2 participants last post by  Action  
#1 ·
Greetings,
I have a 2010 ford Escape. Recently, the LED on the instrument cluster went out. The LED shows the odometer and some other basic information. All the gauges and indicator lights function normally (everything lights up on start up). I've come across a few sites that say it is a common problem, and a couple sites that claim to be able to repair the electronics behind the LED (https://circuitboardmedics.com/ford-escape-instrument-cluster-repair). I know I can buy a replacement, but who is to say it won't have the same problem sooner or later (later is not bad considering the age of the car).
Has anyone successfully repaired this problem on your own workbench, or successfully used one of these online repair outfits?
Thanks!
 
#2 ·
I have heard of this problem on a number of vehicles. (None of which I have owned or worked on) My understanding is a soldered connection comes apart or was not solid. Many times it shows up with burn marks because the connection did not fail all at once it took some time. Partial or poor connections may burn leaving a mark.

If you send it out likely that is what a repair tech is looking for. Then they will do the repair making that connection very solid. Look for a warranty of some duration before choosing.

>>>>>>>>>>Action
 
owns 1971 Ford LTD Convertible
#3 ·
Before doing any repairs, pull codes from the engine control system. It is possible there is a non-cluster issue as well. If you do not have a scanner, most fast moving parts stores will do this for free.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>Action
 
owns 1971 Ford LTD Convertible
#4 ·
Thanks Action,
I’m curious if the solder repair is do-able with special tools... probably worth having it done by a good repair shop.
I did have the codes checked recently at an auto parts store for an unrelated issue (went into limp mode with the wrench icon illuminated. I’m thinking its the throttle body recall issue, but thats a subject for a separate thread).
Anyhoo, there weren't any saved codes.
I’ll keep researching the repair option and compare warranties.
Thank you!
 
#5 · (Edited)
The wrench is the fly by wire throttle body and electronic accelerator pedal.

I suck at soldering. Is it doable? The answer is yes, by some one that has far better skills at soldering than I do. I can't figure why there is a L in solder, much less how to actually solder two pieces of metal together.

As Callahan said,
A man's got to know his limitations. When it comes to soldering and painting panels, I contract that out.

>>>>>>>>>>>>Action
 
owns 1971 Ford LTD Convertible