2017-2020 Maserati Levante Instrument Cluster Visor: Rattles, Peeling Leather, and Replacement

Primary Function of the Instrument Cluster Visor

The instrument cluster visor on a 2017-2020 Maserati Levante serves two main purposes. Functionally, it acts as a sun shield for the gauges, ensuring the driver can always clearly see critical information like speed, RPM, and warning lights without being hindered by glare. Aesthetically, it is a major component of the dashboard's design, providing a finished, luxurious appearance. It is often covered in fine leather, sometimes with contrast stitching, to match the vehicle's specific interior package.

Common Failure Symptoms

Failure of the instrument cluster visor is typically physical rather than electronic. There are no associated fault codes; diagnosis is based on visual inspection and sound.

Visible Cosmetic Damage

The most common issue is the delamination or peeling of the leather covering. Due to prolonged exposure to sun and heat, the adhesive holding the leather to the plastic base can fail. This results in:

• Bubbling or blistering on the surface
• Leather pulling away from the edges and seams
• A wrinkled or loose appearance

This is a well-known issue in many high-end vehicles with full-leather dashboards and is not exclusive to Maserati.

Rattling or Squeaking Noises

Annoying rattles or squeaks from the dashboard area can often be traced back to the instrument cluster visor. These sounds are typically caused by:

• Broken Mounting Tabs: The plastic clips and tabs that secure the visor to the dashboard can become brittle over time and break, causing the part to fit loosely.
• Panel Contact: The visor may rub against adjacent trim pieces, creating noise as the vehicle chassis flexes during driving.

You can often diagnose this by gently pressing on the visor while driving; if the noise stops, the visor is the likely culprit.

Known Issues, TSBs, and Recalls

As of mid-2024, there are no official recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Maserati specifically addressing the instrument cluster visor for the 2017-2020 Levante. However, the issue of peeling leather on dashboards and interior trim is a widely discussed topic among owners in online forums. While not officially recognized with a specific service campaign for this part, it is a known weak point related to material aging and heat exposure.

Buying a Used Instrument Cluster Visor: What to Inspect

Due to the high cost of a new OEM part, a used visor in good condition is an excellent value. However, careful inspection is critical to ensure you get a quality part that matches your vehicle perfectly.

1. Verify Your Exact Interior Trim and Color

This is the most important step. The Levante was offered with a wide array of interior options. It is not tied to your exterior paint code. You must match the material, color, and even the stitching color.

• Material: Options included standard leather, extended full leather, premium perforated leather, and high-end Pieno Fiore natural leather.
• Color: Common colors include Nero (black), Cuoio (tan/brown), Rosso (red), and Sabbia (sand).
• Stitching: Many interiors featured contrasting stitching (e.g., Nero with Rosso stitching). Ensure the stitching on the used part matches yours.

Look for a sticker with part numbers on the back of your original part or provide your vehicle's VIN to the seller to help confirm compatibility.

2. Inspect All Mounting Tabs and Clips

Turn the part over and carefully inspect every single plastic tab, clip, and screw hole. Even one broken tab can prevent a snug fit and lead to the very rattles you might be trying to fix. If a tab is broken, the part is compromised and should be avoided.

3. Check for Leather/Vinyl Delamination

Closely examine the entire surface, especially the top edge that gets the most sun exposure. Look for any signs of bubbling, lifting, or peeling. Run your hand over the surface to feel for any looseness that isn't immediately visible.

4. OEM vs. Aftermarket

For a precise-fitting interior component like this, a used OEM part is strongly recommended. There are virtually no direct-fit aftermarket replacement visors available. You may find aftermarket dash *mats* that lay on top of the dashboard, but these are not replacement parts. A used OEM visor guarantees the correct fit, material quality, and appearance.

Replacement Cost Comparison

Replacing the instrument cluster visor is relatively inexpensive if you source a used part and perform the labor yourself.

Step-by-Step Replacement Overview

Replacing the instrument cluster visor is a straightforward task that is very feasible for a DIYer with basic tools. The entire process should take less than 30 minutes.

1. Pry Off Lower Trim Piece: Using a trim tool, carefully pry off the thin trim piece located directly underneath the instrument cluster visor. It is held in by clips and will pop off.
2. Remove Upper Plastic Cover: Above the visor, there is a black plastic cover against the dashboard. Pry this piece downwards and then pull it out towards you.
3. Unscrew the Visor: Removing the upper cover reveals two Torx screws (typically T16) that secure the top of the visor to the dashboard. Remove these two screws.
4. Remove the Visor: With the screws out, the visor can be pulled up and out. It is held in by several clips at the bottom, so a firm but careful pull is needed.
5. Install the New Visor: Align the clips on the new visor and press it firmly into place until it snaps in. Reinstall the two Torx screws, then snap the upper and lower trim pieces back on.

Technical Specifications and Part Numbers

Part numbers for this component vary widely based on the interior color, material, and stitching. The part number is typically found on a sticker on the underside of the part. Always try to match the part number or confirm with the seller using your VIN.

• Verified Part Number (Base): 670087633
• Known Variant (Tan): 670061997, 670043348
• Related Dashboard Component (Brown): 670183208

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)