Speedometer/Tachometer "Sticking"

[MScheiper]

I have had this ongoing issue with my 04. 5 for the last two months. While driving( usually 2nd to 3rd gear) the speedometer and tach will stop at a random reading and freeze in position. After a few seconds, they will start functioning again. Also while driving, the brake and ABS light will come on for a second with the chime noise adn go out quickly. Truck still under warranty and has had the following replaced:

Gauge cluster

Front control module

Dealer has really been helpful and cooperative about warranty work, but the problem still exists. Is there any connection(such as a common ground) that I could inspect that would cause these types of symptoms? My gut feeling is that is must be some poor connection or ground in the system... somewhere. Any help greatly appreciated!!!

 

[wlknhoss1]

On the 97-2002 models, the sending unit in the differential can cause all those problems. I haven't heard of any in the 03-up. Just a thought.

Rick

 

[scbroder]

My 2003 recently starting freezing the tach also. Noticed it for the first time this winter. Usually only notice it after cold start when shifting up through the lower gears.



Also while driving, started having issues with the cluster "ding", all gages drop to zero, low fuel light comes on, and then all gages quickly back to normal operating range. No explanation why, no ECM codes, and no cluster codes.



I had the gauge cluster TSB reflash done a couple of years ago, never had issues again until this winter. I am out of warranty so just waiting for something more concrete to show up before visiting the dealer.



I too, suspect a poor connection. Suggestions welcome.

 

[Nightram]

I have the same exact problem, except it is my air bag light. I haven't taken it in yet, but when I do I will let you all know what they try for me.

 

[MScheiper]

Thanks for the reply guys! Will definately check the rear end sending unit. Does anyone know th eexact location on the 04. 5 rear end?? I have also had the air bag light come on but not as frequently as the brake/ABS lights. Will definately keep you all posted if a solution is found. Glad I'm not the only one who is experiencing this.

 

[Nightram]

I heard something of interest today. I have a friend who I work with, his nephew works at a Dodge dealer. He said that they found that a wire for the air bag system inside the harness of the steering column melts and shorts, and when it touches the metal column, it creates the dinger! The best part is according to him, the column is $2,200, and it also is on backorder. They have a Ram at the dealer that has been there since 12/05, and since it is tied to the airbag system, it is not drivable! I smell a recall on the way!



Mine is at the dealer, I called and checked the status, they said they can't find an issue, but they made very clear to state the fact it has "aftermarket modications" so I am sure they will get out of whatever they find anyway

 

[sag2]

Sounded like a tall tale so I just looked up complete column for 04 and there were three listed, $796, $1027, and $819 including the markup. Long ways from $2200!

 

[Nightram]

Whew! That is good for me. Oh yeah, the dealer found nothing wrong! It did it as I was leaving the lot @#$%$#@!!!!!!

 

[MScheiper]

nightram, I am completely sympathetic. Like I said earlier, mine was in the shop on three different occasions for this problem. Had the thing act up as I was leaving the lot the last time also!!!! Haven't been back... afraid of what they will tell me next... ... . basically they are at a loss of ideas and don't know what to do next. After two cluster replacements and a new ECM, they are baffled

 

[Nightram]

That sucks! I am going to take mine to the dealer where they have found the shorted wiring in the column on the other Rams. Maybe they can figure something out. I may strip all my aftermarket stuff out to so they can't say it is corrupting the system. I will keep you all posted.



P. S. I replaced the rear diff speed sensor myself last night on a trying guess ... no change.