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Ford Mustang GT 1996-2004: How to Replace Gauge Cluster

When any of the gauges in your instrument cluster stops working, it's time to swap it out. It's a lot easier than you might think.

By Ben Mannino - October 7, 2015
Contributors: Kenny Graham

This article applies to the Ford Mustang GT (1996-2004).

So you pushed the needle so hard that you broke the instrument cluster in your GT...again. It's probably a good idea to learn how to replace it. The good news is that the process is fairly straightforward, and you can save yourself a bundle in the process. This article will show you how to do it, step-by-step.

Materials Needed

  • Small flat head screwdriver
  • T15 Torx driver
  • Needle nose pliers

Step 1 – Remove the gauge bezel screws

Remove the two T15 Torx screws at the top of the gauge bezel.

Figure 1. T15 Tox screws' location.

Step 2 – Remove the headlight knob

Before being able to remove the gauge bezel, you will need to remove the headlight knob. Use a small flat head screwdriver to lift the retainer clip up and over the notches on the headlight adjustment arm. Pull the knob off and set it aside.

Figure 2. Remove the headlight knob.

Step 3 – Remove the gauge bezel

Use that same flat head screwdriver to go around the outer edge of the gauge bezel and gently pry it off the clips in the dash. Once it is completely separated, pull it off of the dash to reveal the cluster.

Figure 3. Pry the gauge bezel off the clips.

Step 4 – Remove the cluster screws

Remove the six torx screws, which are shown in Figure 4. Once the screws are removed, slowly pull the cluster out.

Figure 4. Location of the six screws.

Step 5 – Remove the harness connectors

You will see two wire harnesses that plug into the back of the cluster. Carefully remove each one by pushing on the top clip to release the connector, as shown in Figure 5. You can now safely remove the cluster.

Figure 5. Remove the connectors.

Step 6 – Replace the cluster

Plug the two wire connectors into the new cluster and fasten the six screws. Pop the bezel back in and push the headlight knob back in place. Fasten the two top bezel screws and you're done!

Featured Video: Gauge Cluster Removal Mustang GT

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