in-dash computer reads "disc"

jeremypowell · Post by **jeremypowell** » 31 May 2009, 14:55

my trip/mpg/temp computer located in my instrument panel occasionally reads disc and the blocks that indicate which mode it is in all light up, then it will return to reading the selected mode. it seams to happen most when i am in instant mpg mode...this happens every couple of minutes or so. does anyone else have this problem? what does it mean?

jeremypowell · Post by **jeremypowell** » 31 May 2009, 15:07

i searched the forums. MIJ suggested to someone else that it may be a bad ignition tumbler. funny thing is, when i start my car it can take a couple of seconds of cranking before it fires. the engine will turn over but not start during this time. i was told that this could be the ring around the switch with the I, II, and III marks on it. i always thought i may of had a poor fuel pump. does this ring pick up the chip signal from the key? does the fact that my engine turns over rule that out or does the sensor simply interrupt spark and or fuel but not the starter motor? two birds with one stone would be great! also, if it is this ring, do i have to get a new key programmed to the new piece or will it still work?

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 31 May 2009, 17:56

Lot's of questions that I don't know the answer to, but yes, the key ring could be the culprit, but since I posted (what you referenced), I have learned that DISC means disconnected and it could be simply that there is some corrosion where your ECU seats...so pull it out and spray it with contact cleaner and see if this makes a difference. Be careful of the fragile pins on the socket where the ECU mates with.

Post by **jblackburn** » 31 May 2009, 18:17

If you jiggle the little info switch a bit that toggles between modes, does it go back to displaying numbers again? Mine does this quite frequently in avg mpg mode; I think it's just bad contacts anymore inside the little switch there. I'm sure it could be cleaned up if I were to pull it out.

There's also the possibility that it could be the ignition switch...mine usually has to be turned back slightly after the car is started for all the electronics and lights to work. As far as the ring, what year is your car? If it is a 99+, there is a chip in your key. If it's a 98 or older, there is no chip from what I understand.

Post by **IVIUSTANG** » 31 May 2009, 18:49

My ignition switch is in good condition and I occasionally get the disc display ONLY when I am viewing the outside temperature. Very infrequently, but I think it is a poor connection somewhere.

Regards,

- Jesse