Why would your instrument panel in a '96 Grand Am go nuts with no speed gas temp or rpm gauge?

Answer 1

It could very well be an alternator/battery/charging system issue, bit it could be other things as well. Start by checking the conditions of your battery cables, the wiring running from the positive battery cable to the starter (make sure it is tight at both ends and in good condition) Check the primary out put wire from the alternator to the starter and make sure it doesn't show signs of overhearting. The wire is the large red or orange wire coming from a single terminal on the back of the alternator. Other causes could be a loose or defective connector on the back of the instrument cluster. Check the connectors and grounds to make sure they are in good condition, clean and tight. The problem could be the instrument panel itself. If it is, when you replace it your will have to do a learn procedure before the engine will start. To do this, you need to turn the key to the run postition and let the car sit until the "Anti-theft" light on the instrument panel stops blinking. Then turn the key off and the engine should start on the next try. This is all part of the Anti-theft system on you car and it involves the PCM (computer), Instrument Cluster, and the ignition switch. Good Luck if its a grand am gt with the "2.4 twin cam" then check the wire from the batt to the starter and from the alt to the starter i have a 2.4 and the guages went crazy because the wire from the starter to the battery was loose on the starter it also killed the battery because the alternator wire is connected to it at the starter if that makes sense -captain I had the same problem and it was the wire. I thought I tightened everything, and I had no problems for month. Now it's back. How can I keep everything tight back there? In addition to losing my gauges, I also lose my HVAC and power windows when the connection is interrupted. it sounds like you need to replace your instrument cluster. i actually replaced mine today my next problem is resetting the computer so the car will start have fun Your Alternator belt could be bad, I had the same problem. I just had to replace the alternator in my 96 Grand Am...and it did exactly what you described to a T. Good luck! My suggestion: go to a wrecking yard for the alternator (a yard that warranties parts like those) and then have a friend or someone who knows what they're doing change it for you. Otherwise, it will cost you an arm and a leg.