fastsuv

On my recently-obtained HHR, the cluster is the Canadian version. Even though it is easily set to US mph, the numbers on the speedo face go to 200, which means the actual useable speed range of about 0-65mph is reduced to a range of about 45 degrees of needle movement. This makes it hard to see small changes in speed.

I want to get a US cluster from a local junkyard ($40) and replace the Canadian unit. I did a forum search on replacing the instrument cluster to see if it needs any dealer reprogramming. The closest answer I found was from Donbrew showing an alldata paragraph which implied that the new cluster should get the proper odometer reading from the BCM after an ignition cycle. There was some vagueness in the alldata paragraph on this matter.

Does anyone have any more info on this since that answer (in 2016)?

Thanks
Steve

donbrew

The odometer is in the BCM. The VIN needs to be updated in the IPC using a Tech2 type device. If the VINs don't agree the speedo and odo readouts will freeze.

Hellshotrod may have a different idea' you might try a PM.

Oldblue

Fastsuv, hmm perhaps we could exchange speedo heads, my US version ends at 120, in klms it’s buried keeping up in some highway driving while keeping up to traffic at 125 kph

fastsuv

I would be interested in an exchange.

I have the service manual for my 2006 HHR at home, so I will check the section that shows the cluster replacement to see what it says.

Steve

donbrew

It just a few screws.for the physical R&R.

Oldblue

I had Oldblue’s out once back when I just bought it , it’s an easy job.

fastsuv

The service manual verified what Donbrew said about matching VINs. The odometer freezes the mileage reading if BCM VIN doesn't match IPC VIN.

Does the VIN in the IPC get updated while installed in the car (through the OBD II connector)? In other words, I would install the new IPC and drive over to the dealer to have the VIN updated?

Steve

donbrew

Yes install then go find a computer guy. You won't get into trouble with the DMV because the BCM is the odo, not like some cars where the IPC is the ODO.

Does not have to be a dealer, a guy with a SnapOn could do it.

Oldblue

My GM girl, noted the difference in the RPO’s for the US and the Canadian clusters are different, perhaps ChevyMgr could confirm if the vin would just set the US cluster back to that short sweep of the indicator needle.
She did note she can set the mileage and the klms reading , but wasn’t sure of completely comfortable doing the swap.

I suggest a swap to a US IPC and see if a dealership or Snap On scanner can complete the reset.

I’m gonna let my sleeping swan sleep and not swap the head out, at this time.
I’m not feeling lucky .
That being said, anybody else have information of a Canadian HHR to US HHR IPC swap?