Hey guys.

I have a 2001 LX and the needle on the temperature gauge in the gauge cluster popped off and is pinched against the cluster's glass now.

The needle didn't break off, but the entire needle with the circular bit popped off.

Can the instrument cluster be opened and the needled popped back on? Once they fall off like this, I need a new gauge cluster?

I have this style

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Honda Civic Speedometer Cluster 127K Gauges EX LX | eBay

 

You can replace the gauge itself in the cluster. Call the Honda dealer and get a part number for this gauge, then hop on google shopping and find one cheaper. They usually cost around $40-$60.

If you decide to go this route of replacing the gauge itself (rather than the entire cluster), post a picture of the back of the gauge and I'll walk you through the process of changing it. Sometimes they're screwed in, sometimes they're held in by bendable tabs that people mistakenly confuse for circuit board solder spots.

 

I had the same thing happen to mine. If you are feeling confident, and have the mechanical ability, you could remove the gauge cluster and carefully remove the plastic cover, you can re-attach the needle.