How To Fix A Buick Odometer

If the odometer in your Buick stops working, your knee-jerk reaction may be to replace the whole unit — but repairing it is actually pretty simple. The odometer usually stops working because the gear inside has worn out, so all you’ll have to do is change it! Doing this requires no special tools, just follow these easy steps.

Buick 4dr white sedan

What You’ll Need

  • Flathead and Phillips Head Screwdriver
  • Replacement Gear from NewGMParts.com

Steps to Repair

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable
  2. Use your flathead screwdriver to pry the gasket off around the edge of the speedometer gauge
  3. Pull the speedometer out of the dash, being careful not to pull on the wiring
  4. Once you have access to the area behind the gauge, disconnect the wiring to pull it free
  5. Lay the gauge on its face and remove the screws from the back with the Philips head screwdriver
  6. Lift the gauge out of the casing and turn it facing up
  7. Holding the the post that’s used to reset the trip odometer, pull it from the gauge slowly and carefully, exposing the motor casing
  8. Remove the speedometer needle by the base by turning the needle clockwise and rocking the needle back and forth
  9. Unscrew the two screws in the gauge face and pull the motor casing for the odometer out from the dial
  10. Remove the gear pod from the motor casing
  11. Pry out the gear using a mini-flathead and replace it with the new gear by pressing it in
  12. Follow these steps in reverse to reinstall!

Tips

  • Lay down something soft on your work area to prevent scratching the gauges and to better help keep small screws from rolling off the table.
  • Keep in mind that the working parts of the speedo gauge are very fragile, especially the needle. Work very slowly and don’t rush — now’s the time to exercise your patience!
  • Always use genuine GM replacement parts when replacing the gear, or any related parts to prevent premature wear or damage.