Tips on Fixing DIM Cluster w/ SRS-Airbag Service Urgent Message

padzilla · Post by **padzilla** » 16 Mar 2018, 17:52

Hi Fantastic Volvo-ers.

So I have a 2003 Volvo v70 that I got as a gift from my aunt. Right after I got it I got the "SRS-Airbag Service Urgent" Message on the instrument cluster. I took it into the shop, after using the Vida they told me they found the codes "SRS-00D4 Fault Lamp, DIM-0005 Red Warning Lamp Circuit." The shop notes say "Tested function of bulb okay at this time, problem seems to be in the circuit inside the cluster."

They quoted me $1500-$1600 to replace the cluster and re-flash with factory software

I love doing things myself on my cars so I'm trying to figure out my options and get this fixed myself.

I understand there are DIM repair services where I can send in my DIM. Anyone on here have experience with any of those or recommendations? Any ideas on how much this would cost?

I would still need to buy a VIDA Dice to clear the code once the repaired DIM is reinstalled is that right? Would any Vida off eBay do the trick or is there one you guys recommend?

What about finding a refurbished/used DIM cluster. Worthwhile or price effective option? Is it plug and play to install it or do I need even more equipment to attempt this.

Just trying to figure out the simplest/cheapest method to get this done.

Let me know!!!

Post by **chrism** » 18 Mar 2018, 08:05

The cheapest way to fix a bad DIM is to find a good used one from the SAME MODEL YEAR AND WITH THE SAME CODE NUMBERS on the back side. If you call a good Volvo wrecking yard, like Erie Volvo, you may be lucky enough to find one, plus they will understand the situation. Purchasing one off of ebay or Craigslist is likely to get you nowhere.

The next cheapest way is to send your existing DIM off to a rebuild shop. Xemodex is considered a reputable place by many folks around here.

Before doing any of this though, you may want to remove the DIM and make sure you don't just have a burned-out SRS warning bulb in there. That in itself is considered a "fault" in the system and will throw an error code. The error code you got, "SRS-00D4 Fault Lamp, DIM-0005 Red Warning Lamp Circuit", kinda makes me think that is a possibility. It would be your lucky day if that was the only problem. Does the SRS waning like illuminate when you first turn the key on?

But for whatever reason you got the error code, you will now need something like VIDA or take it to a well equipped repair shop to have it erased.

Good luck!

padzilla · Post by **padzilla** » 20 Mar 2018, 11:31

Thanks for the reply Chrism,

I will check out Xemodex.

Do you have any more info on a burned-out SRS warning bulb? What would the procedure look like to replace it, is it easy to identify/replace. Any soldering involved?

Looks like it'll be worth getting a Vida regardless to try this so I'll probably order one on eBay pretty soon.

Thanks again, much appreciated!
-Alex

padzilla · Post by **padzilla** » 20 Mar 2018, 13:16

By the way, yes the SRS warning comes on as soon as I turn the key.

Cheers. Alex

Post by **oragex** » 20 Mar 2018, 15:04

The DIM might be in good condition, but was unplugged without disconnecting first the battery. Drive it for a while see if the DIM works properly, then find someone with VIDA to clear the SRS message and light.

If you do need to repair the DIM however, Xemodex is quite expensive, better send it to a Ebay repair service with a good feedback.

Post by **chrism** » 21 Mar 2018, 10:52

padzilla wrote: ↑20 Mar 2018, 13:16 By the way, yes the SRS warning comes on as soon as I turn the key.

Well then, that rules out the possibility of a burned out bulb - no need to chase that one.

I like oragex's idea to try having the SRS fault cleared just to see if it reappears. My local Volvo indy charged me $35 to turn my SRS light off after I did a DIM swap. The dealer would probably charge you much more.

padzilla · Post by **padzilla** » 21 Mar 2018, 14:37

Thanks for all the help everyone! I'll start with getting a VIDA & go from there

Post by **regent** » 03 Apr 2018, 11:20

Most internal DIM failures are caused by cracked solder joints. I had mine completely gone dead on me a few weeks ago, and after fixing it, I had to clear the "SRS-Airbag Service Urgent Message" with VIDA.

Here is the information I used to re-flow the DIM; also replaced the 5 Volt regulator (sourced one for $6.50 from a German eBay seller)

If you search the Forums, the DIY is quite doable (not at all as complicated as it may seem): in addition to patience, all you need is steady hands, at least one (1) good eye armed with a magnifying glass, and plenty of light:

http://forums.swedespeed.com/showthread ... DIM-repair
Re-flow Procedure: http://stichl.at/2014/01/volvo-xc90-ins ... lf-repair/
Youtube Video:

Hope this helps you save some cash and/or trips to the boneyard