Hi folks, this is my first post/thread. Ive posted a copy in the electrical category, but figured I might as well post here too. Im not very knowlegeable about the mechanics of a vehicle...anyway heres my question. I have a '03 Excursion, 6.0 I was in the process of downloading Bullydog to the OBD port. Well, in the process, I lost power from my batteries...probs cause I had left doors/hood open. After getting new batteries, the truck runs, however, on my instrument cluster...various lights stay on (seatbelt,engine light,door ajar,check gauges). None of the gauges work...none. My radio doesnt work and my interior lights dont work. Bullydog is pretty much unable to help. So I took it to the local dealership to have it reflashed. They say they are unable to reflash and that I need a new instrument cluster...and that should fix it. I dont understand. Does the instrument cluster control the various electronics in my truck? I figure it would have something to do with the computer. Fuse box is okay. This will be covered under my extended warranty, though I do have to pay a deductible since Im at 65000 miles. Thanks in advance for any replies.

 

Wow, that is really weird. I really don't have and answer for you but I would imagin that the instrument cluster has any type of brain of control of anything. I have heard that loosing power during flashing can be pretty much the worst that could happen. I hope that all goes well and keep us informed.


Bryan

 

I have a 06 f-250 and had an after market sound system put in.I took it out and my guages,int. lights,windows,radio started working when they felt like it.I have checked wires,relays,fuses and even replaced one of the batteries which it also seems to be killing the batteries.And the only thing I have found is the instrument cluster could be bad.On my truck,the GEM module is intergrated into the cluster.I hope that helps

 

oops...i never posted a follow up. anyway, i eventually brought it to the local dealership and they installed a new cluster under warranty. voila...all fixed. havent had a problem with it since and bullydog and outlook monitor working great. thanks

 

You toasted the GEM when the power died on you. I've read about that numerous times on other vehicles. people have had to replace their ECU's from this so consider yourself lucky.

 

absolutely...i knew that thing was fried...was afraid what the dealership was going to say. fortunately, like you said, was very very lucky to get replacement under warranty. no more fooling around...as ive been very very happy with my truck.
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'03 Excursion Limited 2wd
Bullydog Tripledog with Outlook
4" MBRP turbo back
Volant intake
Accufab elbow