Hi all. I've been just curious about a potential upgrade to my 1997 Accord lx coupe. I know that you can modify the gauge cluster on other vehicles so that you are using a tablet or android device. I haven't been able to find anything for this model. I'm curious because I'm starting to have issues with the cluster that's currently in. Specifically, the tach needle went completely around the panel and it's now stuck behind the stopper that is at the 0. I already have a few android devices lying around. So, I thought it might be an interesting fix. If it's not possible, that's fine. I'll just have to find another fix. But, I wasn't able to answer this question ahead of time.

 

For enough money most things are possible, however, that doesn't mean they will be cost effective solutions. My bet is it will cost you a mere fraction to simply fix/replace your current instrument cluster.

 

I appreciate the information. And, I imagine that it would. I'm just trying to see if it's possible, then how would I do it? This is a project that I anticipate taking a bit of time. She needs a lot of other stuff, too. Like I said, I'm not looking at cost, at this point. I'm looking at what would it involve. I know swapping other clusters may require refitting different connectors and the like. I've seen some other cars use tablets. But, usually they're at least 2000's. I guess, my main question is, I'd my car too old to even attempt it?

 

I'm confused on what you are considering with the instrument cluster. How do you want it to work with an android device?

 

I'm looking to do something similar to this pic I found on Google. lol

 

You will have to find out how that tablet gets the information to show the gauges. I'll guess that it uses the OBD2 connector, which your accord has behind the ash tray. If not, then you have a bunch of wiring diagrams to figure out.

I am not sure you will have the fuel tank gauge level through OBD2, because I'm not sure the gauge sends the fuel level to the PCM.

The easiest fix for the car is likely to find a used cluster and swap out the tachometer. Your old tachometer may have some bad/cracked solder joints that need repaired.

 

That's more what I was looking for. What may, or may not, need to be done to make it work. Honestly, if the fuel gage is the only thing it would be missing, then I could maybe just use an analog gage for that only lol.

If I simple want to swap out the old one for a "new" one, can I use any cluster from a manual? For example, any year honda? Or, does it have to be specific to that model? I'm only asking here, because I can't seem to find a clear answer for this vehicle.

 

Other clusters may work, but the concern would be if they can fit and bolt into the 94-97 dash. The electrical connectors may be different, so you would have some wiring to figure out. Lastly, the signal generated for each gauge from each sensor may be different, so a gauge may be inaccurate. All of these likely need to be determined by trial and error. Maybe the honda tuner sites have information on gauges that can help. This forum typically gets more repair questions, where a modifications are very specific into what you want to setup.

That is why shipo suggested fixing the issue with your current cluster will be the quickest and simplest solution.