Principles of Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Lincoln Mark LT and 2007 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The instrument cluster is a configurable, hybrid electronic cluster (HEC) that contains a microprocessor, gauges, indicator lamps, and internal circuitry. The instrument cluster is non-repairable with the exception of the instrument cluster lens and indicator bulbs. The instrument cluster uses hardwired circuitry, the controller area network (CAN) and the universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART)-based protocol (UBP) communication networks. Communication using the CAN transmits and receives data between the instrument cluster and the powertrain control module (PCM), and the anti-lock brake system (ABS) module. Communication using the UBP network uses data transmitted and received by the instrument cluster, and the electronic automatic temperature control (EATC), vehicle security module (VSM), and the driver seat module. The restraints control module (RCM) and the parking aid module communication is on the international standards organization (ISO) network. For additional information regarding the CAN, UBP and ISO communication networks, refer to MODULE COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK article. When installing a new instrument cluster, the instrument cluster must be configured. For additional information, refer to MODULE CONFIGURATION article.

The following items must be configured when installing a new instrument cluster:

Body and security module
Overspeed warning
Outside air temperature and compass
Automatic temperature control type
Outside air units
Belt minder
Speedometer scaling
Flex fuel (luxury message center cluster)
Autolamp delay timer (luxury message center cluster)
Autolocks (luxury message center cluster)
Transit mode
Fuel tank size (luxury message center cluster)

It is very important to understand:

where the input originates from.
all the information necessary in order for a feature to operate.
which module(s) receive(s) the input or command message.
whether the module which received the input controls the output of the feature, or whether it outputs a message over the communication network to another module.
which module controls the output of the feature.

The instrument cluster carries out a display prove-out to verify that the warning/indicator lamps and monitored systems are operating correctly. When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the charging system warning indicator and the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminate until the engine starts and is running normally. The safety belt warning indicator proves out for 6 seconds or until the safety belt is fastened. The door ajar warning indicator illuminates only with the key in the START/RUN position and one or more doors are open, turning off only when the doors are closed. When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position with the engine off, the following indicators illuminate for approximately 3 seconds with the exception of the air bag warning indicator, which illuminates for approximately 6 seconds:

ABS warning indicator
BRAKE warning indicator
4x4 high indicator
LOW RANGE indicator
Electronic throttle control (ETC)
Traction control indicator

Integrated Circuit Display - The driver information messages are transmitted to the instrument cluster over the communication network. The compass module and outside air temperature sensor are hardwired to the instrument cluster. The odometer and trip odometer information is transmitted from the PCM through the communication network to the instrument cluster.

NOTE: On vehicles equipped with electronic automatic temperature control (EATC), the climate control assembly displays the outside air temperature. The instrument cluster only displays the outside air temperature on vehicles that are not equipped with EATC.

In addition to the compass, outside air temperature and odometer/trip odometer, the integrated circuit provides the driver with information using a text-based format. The CHECK GAUGES display illuminates when there is low oil pressure, high engine coolant temperature or when the vehicle has entered into the fail-safe cooling mode. For additional information on the fail-safe cooling mode warning, refer to WARNING DEVICES article.