E36 Instrument Clusters

E36 Instrument Clusters

- 318i, is, 3251, is, 328i, is and M3 (up to 9-96 production)
These vehicles utilize an instrument cluster that does not have a coding plug. The entire cluster is model specific encoded by the ZCS encoding procedure. If a replacement cluster is required, order via the EPC or microfiche for part number information and reference SI bulletin 62 02 97 for detailed information regarding retrofitting of 1997 model year instrument clusters into these earlier vehicles.

Additionally, a parts ordering procedure is available through the PDC that transfers the accumulated mileage and service interval data from a defective instrument cluster into a new replacement cluster for these vehicles. This alternative procedure is not meant to replace the existing procedure utilizing the Federal Odometer Disclosure label as described on page 2 of this section. It is only meant for sensitive "dissatisfied customer" situations. Refer to SI Bulletins 62 02 95 (4174) and 62 02 97 and page 40 of the 1997 New Model Update - Part One training handout.

- 3181, is, 3281, is and M3 (after 9-96 production)
For the 1997 model year, the vehicles listed above received an updated instrument cluster with an external replaceable coding plug. This feature provides automatic mileage and service data update when a replacement cluster or coding plug is fitted. Refer to page 40 of the 1997 New Model Update - Part One and SI Bulletin 62 02 97.

- 3i8ti and Z3 roadster (all production)
These vehicles are equipped with an instrument cluster that is not connected to the diagnostic link and is not ZCS encodable. Therefore a coding plug is necessary for vehicle specific coding.

The coding plug stores the accumulated mileage and the service interval information. The instrument cluster also stores the data redundantly in an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory).

If the cluster main processor or coding plug needs replacement, the mileage and SI Indicator data can be transferred to the new component using the clusters test step procedure #9. The higher value overwrites the lower. Refer to the 1995 New Model Update - E36/5 handout.







To remove the coding plug from the instrument cluster first remove the snap off cover. Pull the coding plug from the connector in the cluster.