1997 Stratus - Instrument Panel

1997 Dodge Stratus ES, 99,700 miles, 2.0 - Manual. The tachometer and odometer will not activate/light until after approx. 2 minutes of the engine running. All other gauges & lights work as well as the mileage for the odometer still adds up, just doesn't light up to see what miles. I have tried tinkering with the connectors, tapping the panel, replaced the car battery (reaching but have no history on the car), checked the fuse, and an alternator check. I'd appreciate any input or assistance with this endeavor. Thanks.