The tachometer does not work on my 1990 Cherokee. How do I fix it?

Question

Please do not tell me to ignore it or take it to Chrysler. I need a real answer.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Dont go tearing the dash out til you check the fueses start simple

Answer 2

First you have to determine if it is the instrument itself, or that it is not getting a signal from the ECU.

If the instrument is not working; replace it - they are not really repairable.  You can use a simple analogue volt meter to see if it is getting a signal.  Make sure that the ground wire is properly connected, and very low resistance to ground.  Sometime ground wire connections get corroded.

If it is not getting a signal, then trace the electrical line back, until you find the signal, and repair or replace whatever is needed to get the signal to the tach.

Answer 3

Sorry you didn't like my earlier answer to ignore it. You seem fixated, but it's your right. You can go to an auto recycling yard and probably get the head unit for about 10 bucks, but that is assuming that is what's wrong.

Answer 4

The simplest answer would be to replace the instrument cluster altogether. It shouldn't be very hard to do if you can find a local salvage yard that will sell you one. Then go to an auto parts store and purchase a repair manual for your Jeep. (Chilton is ****. Buy a Haynes, more commonly found at Auto Zone.)

One question. Is it the original instrument cluster, or was it ever replaced?