My mini has 63,000 miles on it. The tach is frozen at 800 rpm, the tail lights stay on when the car is off and the key is removed. The instrument panel lights will not illuminate when the car is running and the headlights are turned on. Any ideas?

 

The center speedometer controls the tach and instrument panel illumination. If the problem is indeed the speedometer, unfortunately it would be quite expensive to replace. Tail lights are controlled by the BC1 computer in the footwell, and I can't think of how something that could cause these issues to happen together. I think you'll really have to get it diagnosed by a dealer.

 

I had the dealer look at and fix the problem with the electrical system. It was the instrument cluster, which cost $812.oo to replace. The dealer tells me he has no clue what happened to it-just quit working. They also diagnosised approximately $5,000.00 worth of repairs that it needs, including power steering hoses, struts, dipstick and crank o rings, motor mounts, and tires. Stated the clutch is close to needing replaced. Yikes, I drive in town and try really hard to take good care of this car. I am sad right now.

 

OUCH!! And it's ONLY a 2005??!! Are you the original owner?? I'd say you have a list to make on which you want done now and which can wait...or see what kind of trade in you can get!!?? If tires are worn you should know that with out someone having to tell you. Are they trying to sell you stuff...just because??!! I'd be wondering about that!!

 

I have another mechanic that I am going to take it to. Then I will decide what I will do. Yes I am the original owner. Actually I was having tires replaced this month so that was no shocker but the other stuff was interesting. The clutch at 62000, when I made a fuss they decided that it wasn't completely gone but soon. I have never owned an automatic auto so have some knowledge of clutches and was confused when the service rep told me the mini clutch was different then others because it is short? Might have to buy another toyota, darnit.