Among the many key components of a motorcycle, the dashboard serves as a crucial interactive hub between the rider and their beloved vehicle. It is like an indefatigable information broadcaster, continuously conveying all kinds of key information about the vehicle to the rider. As a well-known brand in the motorcycle industry, TVS’s dashboard stands out among numerous products with its unique design and advanced technology.
I. Development History
TVS has a long history of exploration in the motorcycle field, and the development of its dashboard has also gone through several important stages. In the early days, TVS motorcycles mostly used more traditional mechanical dashboards, presenting basic information such as speed and mileage through simple mechanical structures. Although this kind of dashboard has a simple structure and high reliability, its functions are relatively single and can only meet the most basic needs of riders.
With the gradual progress of technology, TVS has kept up with the trend of the times and entered the era of electronic dashboards. By introducing electronic technology, the dashboard can display data such as speed and mileage more accurately in digital form. At the same time, it has also added rich information display functions such as fuel level and water temperature. The display effect has also been greatly improved, becoming clearer and more intuitive, providing riders with a better user experience.
In recent years, TVS has made great efforts in the field of intelligent dashboards, demonstrating strong innovation capabilities. Take the TVS X, an electric light motorcycle, as an example. The 10.25-inch full-color instrument it is equipped with is eye-catching. This instrument not only integrates the conventional riding data display function but also incorporates display and operation functions related to active safety technology, such as collision warnings and speeding alarms. In addition, it also supports diversified functions such as cruise control, health monitoring, games, and real-time video streaming (when the vehicle is parked), expanding the functions of the motorcycle dashboard to a whole new level.
II. Functional Features
(1) Basic Information Display
Speed and Mileage: The speedometer on the TVS motorcycle dashboard can accurately display the vehicle’s instant driving speed, usually in kilometers per hour (km/h). Whether it is a low-speed shuttle on urban roads or a fast ride on the highway, riders can, through the clear scale and accurate pointer (or digital display), grasp the vehicle speed in real-time, ensuring riding safety and strict compliance with traffic rules. The odometer shoulders the important task of recording the cumulative mileage of the motorcycle, with the smallest unit accurate to meters. This data is of great significance for riders to understand the usage degree of the vehicle, reasonably plan the maintenance cycle, and evaluate the value of the vehicle.
Fuel and Battery Level: For TVS motorcycles with fuel power, the fuel gauge intuitively indicates the amount of fuel in the fuel tank, in liters (L). The scale on the gauge is like a “barometer” of fuel reserves, allowing riders to know the fuel level in the tank at any time, so as to plan the refueling trip in advance and avoid being in an embarrassing situation due to running out of fuel. On TVS electric motorcycles, the battery level display function plays a similar role. It shows the remaining battery level of the battery to the rider in the form of a percentage or other intuitive ways, helping riders to reasonably arrange their trips and find charging facilities in a timely manner.
(2) Warning and Indicator Lights
Safety Warning Lights: The TVS motorcycle dashboard is equipped with a variety of safety warning lights. When the motorcycle turns, the left and right turn signals will emit bright and rhythmic flashing signals with alternating light and darkness, just like giving a clear “turning instruction” to surrounding vehicles and pedestrians, greatly improving the safety during riding. The high beam indicator light lights up when the rider turns on the high beam, not only reminding the rider of the usage status of their own lights but also enabling surrounding traffic participants to notice it in time to avoid traffic accidents caused by light problems. In addition, warning lights such as the oil pressure warning light, engine fault warning light, and charging system warning light are the “guardians” of the vehicle’s health status. Once these warning lights light up, it means that there may be abnormalities in the corresponding systems of the vehicle, and the rider needs to take immediate measures, such as parking for inspection or timely repair, to prevent more serious failures from occurring.
Unique Warning Functions: Some high-end models or specific models of TVS also have unique warning functions. For example, the TVS X mentioned earlier is equipped with collision warning and speeding alarm functions. Through advanced sensor technology and intelligent algorithms, it can monitor the environment around the vehicle and the driving status in real-time. When the system detects a possible collision risk or the vehicle is speeding, it will promptly send out warning signals in a prominent way on the dashboard, and may even be accompanied by sound alarms to remind the rider to pay attention to safety and take corresponding countermeasures.
(3) Intelligent Interaction Functions (Some Models)
Multifunctional Operation Interface: The intelligent dashboards of some TVS motorcycles are equipped with a multifunctional interface that is easy to operate. Riders can easily switch and set various functions through the buttons on the dashboard or touch operations (if the touch function is supported). For example, they can switch between different riding modes and adjust parameters such as the display brightness and contrast of the dashboard to adapt to different lighting environments and personal usage habits.
Interconnection Function: With the development of the Internet of Things technology, TVS is also actively exploring the interconnection function of motorcycle dashboards. The dashboards of some models can be connected to smart devices such as mobile phones, and data sharing and interaction can be achieved through specific apps. Riders can directly view the navigation information on their mobile phones on the dashboard without having to look down at the phone, improving the safety and convenience during riding. At the same time, functions such as vehicle positioning and remote monitoring of the vehicle status may also be realized, allowing riders to keep track of the vehicle’s situation anytime and anywhere.
III. Common Faults and Repairs
(1) Pointer Faults
The pointer does not move or swings abnormally: When the pointer of the TVS motorcycle dashboard does not move or swings irregularly, it is very likely that the terminal is loose or the resistance coil of the sensor is broken. At this time, professional maintenance personnel need to use professional tools to carefully check the relevant components and accurately confirm the problem. If it is determined that it is a sensor fault, for some experienced maintenance personnel, they can try to carefully remove the sensor to check if there are repairable problems such as loose solder joints. If the solder joint is loose, re-soldering can usually solve the problem; but if the sensor is seriously damaged, in order to ensure the normal operation of the dashboard and the accuracy of data display, a brand-new sensor needs to be replaced.
The fuel gauge pointer is abnormal: If the fuel gauge pointer is abnormal, such as inaccurate indication or jamming, it is most likely caused by poor contact of the sliding rheostat of the fuel level sensor. Since the repair of the fuel level sensor requires professional tools and a high level of technical expertise, self-repair is not only difficult but may also lead to more serious problems due to improper operation. Therefore, it is recommended that riders send the vehicle to a professional TVS motorcycle repair point, and professional technicians will conduct a comprehensive inspection and replacement. After determining that it is a fault of the sensor resistance coil, maintenance personnel generally choose to replace the entire sensor to ensure that the fuel gauge can accurately reflect the amount of fuel in the fuel tank.
(2) Display Faults
The dashboard does not light up: The dashboard not lighting up is a relatively common fault that may be caused by a variety of reasons. First, the rider can check whether the key switch is in good contact. A simple operation is to gently rotate the key a few times to see if the dashboard can return to normal display. If the problem still exists, it may be that the battery is out of power. At this time, the DC gear of a multimeter can be used to measure the battery voltage. If the power is found to be insufficient, the battery should be charged in time, and usually, the dashboard can light up again. In addition, poor wiring contact or open circuit is also a common cause of the dashboard not lighting up. Maintenance personnel need to carefully check whether the dashboard plug is tightly connected. If there is poor contact, they can try to unplug and plug the wiring harness interface tightly again to see if the fault can be repaired. If after investigation, it is determined that it is a fault of the light-emitting tube, then a new light-emitting tube needs to be replaced to restore the display function of the dashboard. It should be noted that the wiring of the motorcycle is exposed for a long time and is likely to be affected by the external environment and suffer from aging and wear. Therefore, in daily use, riders should regularly check the condition of the wiring harness. Once serious wear is found, it must be replaced in a timely manner to ensure the normal operation of the vehicle’s electrical system and riding safety.
Display error or blur: When the dashboard has problems such as displaying error information or being blurred, it may be that the display screen itself has a fault or there are problems with the relevant circuit. If the vehicle is still within the warranty period, the rider can directly contact the after-sales service of the TVS manufacturer, and the manufacturer will arrange professional personnel for after-sales repair or replacement of relevant components. If the vehicle is out of the warranty period, the rider can choose to send the vehicle to a professional motorcycle repair shop for inspection and repair. Maintenance personnel usually use professional tools, such as a multimeter, to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the circuit to find the fault point and carry out accurate repair. If it is determined that it is a display screen fault, it may be necessary to replace the display screen or carry out professional maintenance treatment on the display screen according to the specific situation.
IV. Replacement Key Points
(1) Preparation Work
Before replacing the TVS motorcycle dashboard, sufficient preparation work is crucial. First of all, a complete set of tools should be prepared, such as screwdrivers and wrenches of various specifications, which will be used for disassembling and installing relevant components. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure that the newly purchased dashboard is completely compatible with the TVS motorcycle model being ridden. For different TVS motorcycle models, the interface type, size, and functional configuration of the dashboard may all vary. If the new dashboard is not compatible with the model, not only will there be many difficulties during the installation process, but it may even lead to the situation where the dashboard cannot work properly after installation and cannot accurately display the vehicle information. Therefore, when purchasing a new dashboard, it is necessary to carefully check the model information. If necessary, you can consult the TVS dealer or professional motorcycle maintenance personnel to ensure the compatibility of the selected dashboard.
(2) Replacement Steps
Turn off the power of the motorcycle: This is the first step in replacing the dashboard. Turning off the power can effectively prevent accidents such as circuit short circuits during the operation, ensuring personal safety and the safety of the vehicle’s electrical system.
Remove the front panel of the motorcycle: Use a screwdriver to carefully remove the front panel of the motorcycle. These panels are generally fixed to the vehicle body with screws or clips. During the removal process, special attention should be paid to saving the removed screws and clips to avoid loss, because these parts will still be needed when installing the new dashboard later.
Pull out the dashboard wire plug: After finding the wire plug connected to the dashboard, gently pull out the plug with appropriate force. Be particularly careful during the operation to avoid damaging the plug or the wiring due to excessive force, because these wire plugs and wiring are relatively fragile, and once damaged, they may affect the normal installation and use of the dashboard.
Remove the screws fixing the dashboard: Use a wrench or screwdriver to remove the screws fixing the dashboard one by one, and properly place these screws. The specifications and quantity of these screws vary depending on the model. During the removal process, attention should be paid to recording them so that the operation can be carried out accurately when installing the new dashboard later.
Install the new dashboard: After carefully taking out the old dashboard, put the new dashboard in the original position, and then use the previously removed screws to fix the new dashboard. During the fixing process, make sure that the screws are tightened so that the dashboard is firmly installed to avoid shaking or loosening during the vehicle’s driving.
Connect the wire plug: Reinsert the previously pulled-out wire plug into the interface of the new dashboard, and make sure that the plug is inserted tightly when inserting to ensure the normal connection of the circuit. If the plug is not tightly connected, it may lead to unstable display of the dashboard or the inability to use some functions properly.
Install the front panel: Finally, reinstall the removed front panel of the motorcycle back to its original position, ensuring that it is firmly installed without any looseness. During the installation process, pay attention to the alignment of the panel and the correct installation of the clips to ensure the integrity of the motorcycle’s appearance and overall aesthetics.
(3) Precautions
During the process of replacing the TVS motorcycle dashboard, various problems may be encountered. If it is found that the newly purchased dashboard is not compatible with the motorcycle model, that is, there is a situation of parts mismatch, the installation operation needs to be stopped immediately, the model should be reconfirmed, and a dashboard that is completely compatible with the model should be purchased. Wiring connection problems are also relatively common. For example, if the plug is not inserted tightly or the wiring is damaged during the disassembly process, it may lead to the situation where the dashboard cannot display properly. In this case, the plug should be carefully inserted tightly again, and whether the wiring is damaged, broken, etc. should be checked. If the wiring is found to be damaged, the damaged part of the wiring should be repaired or replaced in a timely manner. In addition, when removing the screws, if the screws are accidentally lost or damaged, screws of the same specification should be found as soon as possible for replacement to ensure the firm installation of the dashboard. When reinstalling the panel, if the installation is not proper, it will not only affect the appearance of the motorcycle but may also have a certain impact on the vehicle’s aerodynamic performance, such as causing an increase in wind noise during the vehicle’s driving. Therefore, after the installation is completed, the installation effect should be carefully checked to ensure that the panel is firmly installed and in the correct position. If the rider is not confident in their own operation ability, it is recommended to seek the help of professional motorcycle maintenance personnel to ensure the smooth progress of the dashboard replacement work and the normal use of the vehicle.
The TVS motorcycle dashboard, through continuous development and innovation, has brought riders an increasingly rich, convenient, and safe user experience. From traditional mechanical display to today’s intelligent integration, it is not only an important part of the motorcycle but also a model of the perfect integration of technology and practicality. By understanding its development history, functional features, common faults and repairs, and replacement key points, riders can better use and maintain their beloved vehicles and enjoy a more pleasant and safe riding journey.
