How to Repair a Digital Odometer in a Cavalier

by Daniel Valladares

The digital odometer on your Chevrolet Cavalier is a part of your vehicle's instrument cluster, so if something goes wrong with the cluster, the odometer will not operate properly. There are three main causes for a Cavalier's digital odometer not functioning correctly: the fuse has blown, the odometer's wiring connector is loose or the instrument cluster has gone bad. The solutions for the three issues are fairly straightforward and you should not need more than half an hour to perform them.

Replacing the Fuse

Step 1

Open the driver's-side door and pry off the cover from the passenger compartment fuse panel located to the far left of the steering wheel.

Step 2

Remove the fuse labeled "CLSTR" with a fuse puller.

Step 3

Install a replacement 15A fuse and reattach the cover to the fuse panel. If the odometer is still malfunctioning, the issue is with the wiring or the cluster itself.

Wiring and Cluster Replacement

Step 1

Open the hood of the Cavalier and use a socket wrench to disconnect the battery.

Step 2

Remove the six screws securing the instrument cluster to the Cavalier. There are two screws on the upper dash trim, which must be removed first, and then four screws on the instrument cluster itself. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws.

Step 3

Reach behind the cluster to locate the wiring connector. Tug on it to make sure it is properly connected. If it comes loose, plug it into the rear of the cluster. If the odometer is still malfunctioning, you need to replace the cluster.