I can't read my dash!!!!
 

Ugh, what is going on, my dash lights are getting less and less visible. I changed out all the bulbs on the dash itself and helped a little bit, but what do I do now??? Go to a dealer and let them charge me $1200.00 to change a fuse or something?? Anyone have any ideas??? http://www.pelicanparts.com/support/smileys/hearts.gif

What year 740 do you have?

its a 1998.

So after changing the bulbs, it still dims out?

Yeah, all new bulbs. The dots are very sparse and hard to read.

hmm. Is it a dimming while you drive or a gradual dim over several days?

It is not a gradual dimming. It is always distorted. The numbers are distorted and all the dots that make the numbers are sparse. It isn't dim, you just cannot read the characters on the dash.

So this is a digital display and not illuminated gauges?

Yes. This is the part that is all messed up. This is how it is supposed to look, but mine is missing about half of the characters.

http://carad.ebayimg.com/i23/03/a/01/64/c7/4e_4.JPG

Here is what I found out that I needed to do from another message board site....

Pixel replacement by BMWNA,part free

The pixels in your instrument cluster have malfunctioned. It is a common problem with these cars. You can call BMW,NA at 201-573-2188 and ask for Chuck Winik, or E-mail Leonora.vlaovich@bmwna.com. BMW,NA is currently replacing the clusters, with many owners paying for the labor at the dealership. One-half to one hour maximum for the replacement of the unit. I believe that they have handled thousands of these claims. On this and other boards I have only read of the above taking place. Make sure that they don't try to get you to pay for anymore than above. Good luck.

You just answered your own question, Common problem. Email these guys and you should be ok...

I just looked at a 95 740 where not only this display was missing a bunch of pixels, but also the radio and the temp selection in the HVAC system control. Are they replacing all such displays with this problem?

todd
1986 911 Coupe