Technical Speedo Needle stuck

[Terry Rathbone]

Hi, my 2012 Fiat 500 POP 1.2 has developed a sticking speedo needle permanently stuck at 30mph. Not sure if I need a replacement gearbox sensor or a new speedo clock unit. All other clock functions are working with no warning lights. Any guidance appreciated.

 

[jrkitching]

If it stays on 30 when you switch the ignition off, then it's definitely a mechanical fault with the speedo. If it returns to zero when you turn the ignition off, then it's an electronic fault somewhere.

If buying secondhand, make sure it's compatible with yours, and be aware that you'll have the flashing mileage issue until the replacement is proxi aligned (MES or a dealer visit required). You can only adjust the mileage upward, so don't buy a used speedo which has recorded more miles than your car.

 

[Terry Rathbone]

If it stays on 30 when you switch the ignition off, then it's definitely a mechanical fault with the speedo. If it returns to zero when you turn the ignition off, then it's an electronic fault somewhere.

If buying secondhand, make sure it's compatible with yours, and be aware that you'll have the flashing mileage issue until the replacement is proxi aligned (MES or a dealer visit required). You can only adjust the mileage upward, so don't buy a used speedo which has recorded more miles than your car.

Thank you, the needle sticks whether the ignition is on or off so it looks like a mechanical issue. I should be able to remove the speedo and disassemble to fix this.

 

[jrkitching]

the needle sticks whether the ignition is on or off so it looks like a mechanical issue.

This has been reported at least once before.

Hopefully a miniscule amount of a suitable lubricant (sewing machine oil?) in just the right place will restore normal function.

I find a microfine syringe (just a few pence from a pharmacy) useful for this sort of thing.

 

[Terry Rathbone]

This has been reported at least once before.

Hopefully a miniscule amount of a suitable lubricant (sewing machine oil?) in just the right place will restore normal function.

I find a microfine syringe (just a few pence from a pharmacy) useful for this sort of thing.

Thanks for you light oil suggestion, I will certainly try this!