Description & Operation

The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) contains a microprocessor as part of the instrument panel assembly. IPC has the capability to diagnose malfunctions in sensors, input switches, components and systems it controls or communicates with. IPC can recognize malfunctions and alert driver through indicators or Driver Information Center (DIC) (if equipped).

IPC uses an electronic analog speedometer with stepper motor-driven odometer, analog fuel and coolant temperature gauges as well as various indicator lights. The IPC is backlit for nighttime illumination. Uplevel IPC's have a 32 bit (2 lines by 16 characters) LED display. Base model IPC's have standard indicators. Uplevel and base model IPC's are not interchangeable

IPC Keep Alive Memory (KAM) stores trip odometer, fuel data and DTCs. KAM memory is lost if battery is disconnected. The unit which can retain information even if battery voltage is lost is the Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). Information retained by EEPROM is odometer, optional settings and manufacturing information. Both KAM and EEPROM are part of the IPC and are not serviceable.