In my experience, swapping the cluster in my 2002 s8 was a real pain and I would avoid doing this if you can. Or at least look at it as a last resort.

I had to buy 3 clusters for approx £100 each before I found a good one. My main dealer wasn't interested in trying to code a used unit so I was on my own.

I had no choice but to do it as it was draining my battery. A previous owner had butchered it to hide a ABS fault. It was also important for me to keep the mileage correct as mine is a relatively low mileage example.

If you look back through some of my previous threads I think I quote a company who claim to be able to clone your cluster if you send them your original and a replacement.

Unfortunately, if the Imo chip on your original is goosed then I don't know how useful this service would be. I would find this highly unlikely though.

Eventually I took both my original and used cluster to a local electronics repair shop near me and they swapped over the 3 necessary chips for £47. Millage, vin number, adaptations and Imo are all as original. No further coding or messing about required.

There are other companies out there who will do an Imo delete if you send them your ecu.

As I said earlier. Explore everything else before you decide the cluster needs replacing. Imho it's a high risk unit to be messing with.

Current situation… 4 rings has sent to cluster off to an electronic specialist. The specialist has confirmed that the processor in the cluster has died and cannot be repaired.

I now definitely need a new instrument cluster. Does anyone have one which will fit a 2001 f/l s8 d2…?

Our sponsors are your best bet then. Contact details at the top of the page ^

If you do get your hands on a second hand unit, did 4 rings say how they intend to match it to the car?

It’s been n a while but I thought I would let you all know what happened in the end…
I managed to find another instrument cluster, which 4rings managed to fit and link to the car. 2 minor issues… s8 logo different in the replacement cluster and mileage on replacement was circa 10k more than mine. But at least car back up and running and has been all good from July to now…
Thanks for all the advice.