As I've posted, I'm investigating swapping the white cluster dials from my 2012 911 GTS 6 spd for standard black. I know lots of folks prefer the Carerra White, but I've always had black and just find the white "too busy" for me.

Looks like two options: replace the cluster itself for about $2400 plus labor, less whatever I might sell the old unit for. The other option is the FVD replacement clusters, which sell for around $750 at Suncoast Parts, with another $350 for a speedometer shop to install (I'd have to pull the cluster).

The money isn't that big an issue, and if the old unit would bring close to a grand, it gets to be a wash. However, my short observation of eBay is that the market isn't that energetic. So it's likely at most $1-1500 more to replace the cluster, maybe less with reselling the part, but hard to predict.

I'd be interested in hearing from folks that have done either regarding results. I'm pretty sure replacing the cluster at the dealer would be near factory results. Anyone have experience with the FVD gauge faces? It appears these are not overlays, but replace the current gauge faces. How is the result? Any ability to distinguish from factory results?

Thanks

 

I had Carrera White gauges and they became blurred, so I swapped the whole cluster out for a used Carrera S cluster with silver gauges. Paid $500 for the replacement cluster and it was in perfect condition. The replacement cluster needed programming, but that was easy to do with Durametric.

I've seen new clusters going for $1500 on ebay, used for $500-750.

 

I replaced my gauge faces with the ones from FVD, couldn't be happier. I dealt with Rhonda and as most will say you can't find a better person to work with. I went with red for my GTS. Rhonda was able to get the GTS logo screened onto my tach. The fit and finish is perfect. FVD will also do the installation for you. I'd recommend that route. FVD has the tools and experience to do the job right. You do not want to break any of the stepper motor gears in the cluster.

 

Any pics?

 

Johnny, I'll post some pics later today.

 

Thanks, all. I've a CPO warranty till 2017 on this...anyone know if the FVD gauges would impact that at all? Or if Porsche would even know if this had been done?

 

If you have a problem with the instrument cluster they might not warranty the cluster. Specifically any of the stepper motors attached to the needles as all of the needles have to be removed and then put back on again. All of the motors are the same and you cannot buy one. You have to buy a complete cluster.

 

Here's a few photos from my phone. Not the greatest but you'll get the idea.

 

Been thinking about red for my 2011 C4. this looks great!

 

I've been looking at swapping the clusters as well. What programming did you need to do with the Durametric? My understanding was that the mileage, etc. is stored in the computer and the cluster is a dumb terminal.

 

Have you tried contacting Hollywood Speedometer? It might be cheaper (and more original) for you to have them change the color for you using your own cluster.

 

+1 on that idea. You could also swap it with someone looking for a white faced cluster at no cost save for the programming. Ad in the classified section of this site and others like it should interest many with black clusters to make the switch.

 

Turning on things like the sport chrono and a few other settings. I just copied the settings from the original, I think I changed 3 or 4. Mileage is stored in the instrument cluster, but cannot be changed.

 

So, you can copy the settings of the original cluster, swap it and then upload the settings into the new cluster? After that, I'm free to change any other settings I'd like?

 

So, honestly, how do you guys like the red face gauges from an ergonomic standpoint? My old Z had red gauges and they looked sharp, but since it was a DD, it began to bother me as we are trained to 'glance' for red color when something is wrong with the car.


Again, the red face looks great and looking sporty.