I had these problems (gas gauge, speedometer etc.) at the same time the communicator switch (blinker, high beam) broke off.
I assumed it was all related to the broken switch. My girlfriend (smart but not a mechanic) changed it for me. While it fixed my headlight issue it fixed nothing else.
Is it possible she hooked something up wrong or do you believe it is faulty cluster as is discussed here?
I hope I worded this with enough detail. We learn as we go by watching YouTube videos!
2005 Chevy Monte Carlo

 

It's possible that the damage to the switch caused damage to the cluster, especially if the vehicle was on when it happened. Clusters can be finicky with all the different bits running through them. Replacing steppers and bulbs aside, you can't really DIY clusters without "tampering" with them which could effect insurance or resale, since people used to try to rewind mileage.
When a cluster goes bad most people go with their dealer because of that but there are some reputable and capable independent shops who can do the cloning and such required to get everything legitimate. I've had good experiences with the folks at https://www.instrumentclusterstore.c...t_clusters.htm and I like that they know what they're talking about as clusters are their only focus.

 

What causes these failures in the first place? I only have one working guage and that is blower pressure. I suspect it is vacuum. Every other gauge is broken. Now these new stepper motors you have....how long do you think this will last, or will this cure the problem forever? I see these dashes advertised for $250. Are they better than yours or using the same stuff that failed before? Thanks in advance.

ISS has these lifetime warranty plug and play. Are they any good? I have no expertise using a soldering iron.

2000 - 2005 Chevy Monte Carlo 6 gauge - Instrument Cluster Replacement

Regular price$249.95

 

The stepper motors allllllllll the way at the top of this thread should have the longevity issues addressed. Ive only seen positive reviews for them, they last.
The ISS cluster however, I dont know if they use the improved stepper motors (I would assume they do) but coming with a lifetime warranty I wouldnt worry much about that. Swapping the stepper motors kinda sucks, you gotta tape the needle to line it up and its tedious.