Adding message center controls to an SSV

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rwc265

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I've seen other Expeditions that have the message center controls mounted to the left of where the hazard lights and TC off buttons are on the center trim panel. As an SSV, mine has these blanked off so I can't cycle through my cluster and see any information, nor does mine calculate MPG or anything fancy like that. I'd like to add that functionality. I know the wiring is there, I pulled the panel and there's a wiring harness plugged directly into that blanked off section, and I know I can get the Message Center Switch, as far as I can tell it's just a matter of programming. I can't imagine Ford made two separate clusters for message center and non-message center, so where can I find the proper data to flash to my cluster to make it like a Civilian expedition? And does it being a column shift cluster complicate anything? I'd imagine no but it's worth adding
 

DeafBringer

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What year is your SSV?

I had a 2011 SSV and I was able to cycle through the message center without the message center switches on the center stack. You can use the button on the gauges to cycle through the message center if it's like my 2011 SSV.

I have a 2012 XL trim and it has the same thing. I thought about getting the message center switches but I would like to try and find switches that fit in the same space for aftermarket accessories but look factory.
 

JamaicaJoe

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The SSV with column shifter displays the PRND321 on the cluster. The civilian model without does not. I have a civilian model (2013 XLT) and would love to have PRND321 display on the cluster so I don't have to look down at the shifter handle on the console. If this is possible, I would love to know.
 
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rwc265

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I feel like a total dope... Totally didn't realize that button on the gauges existed. Yes, it works. It's a 2009 SSV btw
 

DeafBringer

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The SSV with column shifter displays the PRND321 on the cluster. The civilian model without does not. I have a civilian model (2013 XLT) and would love to have PRND321 display on the cluster so I don't have to look down at the shifter handle on the console. If this is possible, I would love to know.
This would require a cluster change. The PRND321 indicators are physically on the cluster for a column shift. That indicator is not on the cluster for a console shift. You may be able to look into an aftermarket gear indicator as an option. Not sure which would be easier or cheaper. Keep in mind that there are state laws regarding changing/altering the vehicle odometer. Make sure you're well versed on that if you decide to go with a cluster change.
 

Steve Hartman

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I know the wiring is there, I pulled the panel and there's a wiring harness plugged directly into that blanked off section
LOL! While I, too, can cycle through using the button on the dash, I decided to buy the switches so I could do as you want to do. So I bought the 3 switch gizmo and pulled the plate off for the install. AND... :( the plug in the harness was not the same as the receptacle in the switch! So, they couldn't mate! Well... DANG IT! LOL! My SSV Expy is a 2007.
 

JamaicaJoe

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This would require a cluster change. The PRND321 indicators are physically on the cluster for a column shift. That indicator is not on the cluster for a console shift. You may be able to look into an aftermarket gear indicator as an option. Not sure which would be easier or cheaper. Keep in mind that there are state laws regarding changing/altering the vehicle odometer. Make sure you're well versed on that if you decide to go with a cluster change.
I don't think that is the case for later model SSV's. It appears in the message center. I have seen screen shots.
 

2010ELExpy4x4

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I got the buttons at a salvage yard plugged them in and they worked no programming needed. The cluster button still works also. 2010 xlt
 
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