Fading display in the heat (2009 X7 computer info. display)

[rmunns]

I have owned this car for 3 years. Each year the display (in the centre of the dashboard) has become more and more faded on hot days. This year the display has vanished, except on dull days or at night. Putting a reflective sheet inside the windscreen does not work - it is the hot inside of the car rather than direct Sunshine that is the problem. Is there anything else I can do?

[GiveMeABreak]

Unfortunately the extreme heat that we are suffering lately is likely to be the cause of a lot of electronic failures.

I must admit, this is the first time I’ve heard of the multifunction screen fading because of the heat. It does seem well protected recessed back inside the dash and out of direct sunlight. However with these extreme temperatures I suppose it’s not beyond the realms of possibility.

I have left several gadgets in the car, only to find that they malfunction the next time I’ve come to use them. I think the extreme heat can effectively distort and damage components on the PCB.

Even things like my radar detector, I now routinely bring in doors every day during this weather so as not to damage it, given that it costs £200!

The only thing I can suggest is that if it safe to do so, leave the windows open about an inch to allow a bit of air and some of the heat to evacuate.

As far as your screen is concerned, if it has now got to the stage where the displays faded I think you’re looking at a new screen to be honest.

I’m assuming of course, that you have already tried changing the colour display background, and / or tried to adjust the brightness and contrast of the display to make sure that it isn’t that?

[EDC5]

When I first got my X7 it had this problem. As well as fading there were lines of dead pixels on the screen. It is a common problem on the Peugeot 407 too. When I replaced the screen all was well.

If you decide to buy a replacement, remember to get a screen that does not show Air Conditioning info as it won't work with the C5.

[GiveMeABreak]

Ignore everything I said about the display colours Roger - I just realised IIRC that you have the standard display (non-colour, non-Sat Nav display). So that will be for your model the EMF-C Screen, part number 9809842880, or 6593T8. There are plenty available - some examples:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from ... 0&_sacat=0

But make sure it is one of the part numbers as there are 2 types that look identical, and one will provide less functionality!

[petef]

Ok, so my 2009 C5x7 Tourer has sat nav (RT4) and a couple of years ago, after being parked up in French full sun for a few days during a heatwave - even hotter than now - I discovered the display had gone like the photos attached. Just like someone had daubed the screen with green paint, from the inside....
It's never got any worse - even in the 40+ temperatures today inside the car. The effect can be made less obvious by having the smaller map screen, but still a bit disconcerting. Has this happened to anyone else?

[Stickyfinger]

Mine does it, I was advised that installing a miniature computer fan can prevent overheating. At 120-50 for a 2nd hand screen, I would say it is worth a go.

[rmunns]

Thank you all for these fascinating answers. I'll try the fan idea, I have some spare 'puter ones.

[GiveMeABreak]

That looks like your liquid from the LCD or some of the sealant from the back of the screen had melted at some point.

[deckoil]

I've got the deteriorating screen on my C5. It happened shortly after I cleaned the dash with a cleaning spray. However, it hasn't improved. Keeps changing colours etc and unreadable at times.

Any idea what screen I need Marc? I also see some comments on having to change a head unit? Could someone explain in simple terms?

What about the Android replacements that are advertised online. Anyone tried these?

Also read it night help to remove and clean with a special spray?

My car details are: VIN CL518288 C5 S/WAGON DW10BTED4. 2012

Thanks for any advice.

[GiveMeABreak]

Ok, so you have the RT4 system. You don't need to replace the Head Unit if it is only the screen that is faulty.

You need part number 6593Q4. Don't get any screen that looks the same - they are not. Don't bother with an aftermarket screen - that won't work either as these have ECUs incorporated into the display and need to talk to the Head Unit. Citroen replacement parts for a new one is an eye-watering £1076.86 inc. VAT. over here.

I would first remove the fascia trim to access the screws and then see if it is just a loose connector.

[deckoil]

Thanks Marc.....as always,

I'm over here at the minute, and thought I might pick one up while here. There are more Citroen's this side of the world, way more than in Australia. I'll have a look around anyway.
You seen to know so much about these cars. Do you work with them?

[myglaren]

You seen to know so much about these cars. Do you work with them?

Yep, his real name is Andrew Lemon.

Incidentally, about ten years ago I was told that many cleaners, especially those containing ammonia, would damage LED and plasma screens and as I had a couple of laptops, LED monitors and a plasma TV I bought a Philips Screen Cleaner gel spray. - still have half of it left.
It is good and hasn't ruined anything yet.
Perhaps if you are able to 'air out' the screen it might recover.

[deckoil]

Thanks Steve, I'll get some of that cleaner.

[myglaren]

I didn't mean you had to get some, just a heads up that some glass cleaners are unsuitable for display screens.

If you do want some, this is it

I recently lost the very good microfibre cloth that came with it, best one I have seen.