Shopping for an SS I,ve noticed some 09s have a pillar mounted gauge and some with the dash version. Was this a mid year change? Also were there different variations of the dash version?

 

The A-pillar gauge was standard in 2009. The dash mounted RPD was optional. In 2010, the RPD became standard.

 

Also if want. You can install an A pillar gauge in the 2010.
The wire plug is there for the gauge.
Hard part is to find the part.

 

I added the pillar gauge to my '09 SS Half-Panel, which already had the RPD.
I added the RPD to my '09 SS Panel, which had the pillar gauge.

CatMan is right, you can add the pillar gauge to a car with the RPD and it is quite easy since the plug is already there.
You just need to get the gauge and pillar from an HHR. I spent less than $100 for the one I added to my AA5.
The gauge from the cobalt has a different plug and will not work without cutting and splicing (ask me how I know!)

However, you can also add the RPD to an '09 or above SS as the plug is there (hidden deeply) under the center cubby.
It is an involved process to get your hands on the plug though. I had to cut some plastic in the piece under the cubby to get to it and it was not easy.

It is far, far easier to find, buy and install the pillar gauge than it is to add the RPD. When you find them, they will be VERY expensive.
They have sold on eBay for $800, but you can sometimes find a deal like I did to add it to my Panel.

If you can, get one with the RPD and add the pillar gauge later.

 

The dash unit is called the RPD ( Reconfigurable Performance Display )
They were the same for all years. Lots of adjustments can be made to the RPD gauges such as color and layout, so some may appear different than others.

 

Good info. Thanks guys !

 

Push come to shove if you can find a OEM A pillar single gauge pod, buy an aftermarket 2 1/16" manual boost gauge.
I would think the original was an analog gauge that read digital.
Just a thought, could be wrong, about the OEM gauge.

 

I have a source that can get brand new OEM complete pillar and boost guage assembly. If interested lmk and ill get a price.