I have a 1999 Dodge Intrepid. I took it to get it checked for a short at a deal

What is your question?

they tell me I have a short in the instrument cluster and HVAC Module. But I concerned because the instrument cluster shows all gauges working and has never presented a problem. However the HVAC Module does not show the display unless I tap on the dash. Which I agree it might be bad. But due to the cost of the cluster I concerned about paying $1273.10 for the instrument cluster. How can I confirm it bad also.

What makes this problem better or worse?

Clusters always been fine but HVAC as I mentioned needs to have the dash tapped to come on. Sometimes

How long has your 1999 Dodge Intrepid had this problem?

Never for the Instrument Cluster. Few years for the HVAC Module