Hey there everybody, just joined this sweet site. I recently had a WRX engine swapped into my 98 Impreza L (ghetto sleeper), and we only have one problem left. The speedometer and odometer are not working on the instrument cluster. We used the original 98 transmission and switched the speed sensor for the WRX one, but no luck. The diagnostic computer reads the speed while driving, but nothing happens on the cluster. We are in the process of trying to find another 98 cluster to test, but need some help in solving this mystery.

Thanks,
Brett

Do the other gauges (gas, water temp) still work?

Yes, all of the other gauges work.

Ever get it figured out?

I would take out your speed sensor and see if it's damaged. It can be easy to damage those while reinstalling them. Also check to see if the physical pickup area are the same dimensions on the WRX and your L.

Couple things you can try. See if you can source a WRX gauge cluster and see if it reports the speed properly. Check part numbers and sensor parameters to see if those two pieces are even compatible. Does the 98 use a mechanical or electronical speed sensor/gauge cluster? Maybe missed a ground? Does it split the speen sensor signal off right at the tranny or did it send the speed signal from the gauge cluster? If it went from the gauge cluster you could try the old speed sensor and tap off the gauge cluster.

-Jon

Does your 98L have the same plug to fit the Wrx speed sensor? Is it possible that you damage the speed sensor when you removed it, or when you put it in the other geabox the flat tab spline did not line up with the speedo gear or you did not go down far enough to engage.

flat tab spline did not line up with the speedo gear or you did not go down far enough to engage.

This is also very common. I had it happen to me a couple times.

The sensor is in tight and the OBD II reads the speed while driving, so the tab is not the problem.