A spacer or retainer secures two circuit boards in a back-to-back configuration. The spacer has opposite first and second sides, each having a peripheral rim against which the circuit boards fit. Each side is recessed to a depth enabling any component terminals or connections from rear surfaces of the circuit boards to be received in the recesses. Pins on ends of the spacer are received in apertures in the circuit boards to guide the circuit boards into position on the spacer. Two clips are positioned next to each other on one wall forming the peripheral rim. Each clip extends beyond an opposite side, and the clips have resilient tabs biased to press the circuit boards against the rims. The circuit boards are connected by electrical wire extending around an opposite wall of the peripheral rim. The spacer and circuit boards form a subassembly, such as for a vehicle instrument cluster.