Description & Operation

WARNING: Vehicles are equipped with air bag supplemental restraint system. Before attempting ANY repairs involving steering column, instrument panel or related components, see SERVICE PRECAUTIONS and DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM in appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.

Analog instrument cluster contains an analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, odometer, and trip odometer. Trip odometer reset button is located to right of fuel gauge. Warning/indicator lights are located on left and right top of cluster and bottom of cluster. Transmission range indicator is located in bottom of cluster. Right and left turn signal indicators are located on top center of cluster between speedometer and tachometer. See Fig 1.

Instrument cluster and instrument panel illumination is controlled by a headlight switch rheostat resistor located on left side of instrument panel. Battery voltage to rheostat is supplied from tail light relay. Voltage from rheostat to bulbs ranges from 0.2 volt (dimmest) to 9.0 volts (brightest).

When ignition switch is turned to RUN position, the following warning indicators will light momentarily for proof of function: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), air bag, BRAKE, charging system, SERVICE ENGINE SOON, low fuel, low oil pressure, and O/D OFF.

Fig 1: Identifying Instrument Cluster Gauges & Indicators

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.