Yes, VDO gauge clusters from the mid 90's to the early 00's are known to be bad, mostly related to a ground issue within the cluster. There is a company that will fix the ground for you and there is another company that will send you a replacement cluster (better option). You can also go the "build yer own cluster" route, many here have done it. Try these threads:
http://www.smwebhead.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=12620http://www.smwebhead.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=11733http://www.smwebhead.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=12745&hilit=gauges+replacement#p123384