Because there's a fault somewhere. If it's affecting all of the gauges, the cause is most likely electrical. Trace the wiring, check grounds and connectors for corrosion, look for broken or unshielded (exposed) wiring. But first, start with the simple things - check your fuse panel.
they dont work
check fuses with test light under dash
Probably a fuse or a loose cable. Try that first.
The gauges on a 2002 Aztek may work intermittently due to faulty connections, a failing instrument cluster, or issues with the vehicle's electrical system. Loose or corroded wiring can disrupt the signal to the gauges, causing them to function inconsistently. Additionally, a malfunctioning sensor or a blown fuse might also contribute to the erratic behavior. Diagnosing the problem may require checking the wiring, fuses, and instrument cluster for faults.
There is a fuse for the gauges, check it.
check the fuse under gauges
Check the fuse box. The problem is probably a burnt out tail-light switch.
It could mean: 1. Ignition is off / engine is stopped 2. Fuse of dashboard is damaged 3. Problems with wire
Jon worked for a small countertop company called Mastercraft Woodworking in Leepsort, PA.
When the instrumental panel on a 2002 Honda Civic fails the usual cause is the dash fuse. One fuse handles most for the gauges on the dashboard, when this fuse blows nothing will work.
Start the thing...............
I just recently had this issue. Once I pressed the power button on the radio all gauges started working again. No idea why. A short in the system somewhere maybe? I dunno. It hasn't happened again in the past 1000kms. 2002 Montana AWD EXT 112,000kms