Circuit Description
The powertrain control module (PCM) uses the generator turn on signal circuit to control the generator. A high side driver within the PCM allows the PCM to turn the generator ON and OFF. When Generator operation is desired, the PCM sends a 5-volt signal to the voltage regulator via the generator turn on signal circuit. This causes the voltage regulator to begin controlling the generator field circuit. Once the generator is enabled by the PCM, the voltage regulator controls generator output independently of the PCM. Under certain operating conditions, the PCM can turn OFF the generator by turning OFF the 5-volt signal on the generator turn on signal circuit. The PCM has fault detection circuitry which monitors the state of the generator turn on signal circuit. If the fault detection circuit senses a voltage other than what is expected, this DTC will set. The voltage regulator also contains fault detection circuitry. If the regulator detects a problem, the regulator will ground the generator turn on signal circuit, pulling the voltage low. This also causes the PCM to set the DTC.
The PCM receives generator output feedback via the generator field duty cycle signal circuit. The voltage regulator generates a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal on the field control circuit. The regulator varies the pulse width of this signal in order to control generator output. This signal is also sent to the PCM via the generator field duty cycle signal circuit. The pulse width of the signal is proportional to generator output. The PCM expects generator output to be within a predetermined range under certain operating conditions. If the PCM detects that the PWM signal on the generator field duty cycle signal circuit is not within the expected range, this DTC will set.
When this DTC sets, the PCM sends a class 2 serial data message to the instrument panel (I/P) illuminating the charge indicator lamp.
DTC Descriptor
This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:
DTC P0620 Generator Performance
Conditions for Running the DTC
The engine is running.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
| • | The generator turn on signal circuit voltage is low while the PCM is commanding the generator on. |
| • | The above condition is present for more than 30 seconds. |
OR
| • | The generator field duty cycle signal PWM is less than 5 percent. |
| • | The engine RPM is less than 2,500. |
| • | The above conditions are present for more than 30 seconds. |
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The PCM stores the DTC information into memory when the diagnostic runs and fails. |
| • | The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will not illuminate. |
| • | The PCM records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The PCM stores this information in the Failure Records. |
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
| • | A History DTC will clear after forty consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other non-emission related diagnostic. |
| • | The current DTC will clear when the diagnostic runs and does not fail. |
Step | Action | Values | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Schematic Reference: Starting and Charging Schematics Connector End View Reference: Engine Electrical Connector End Views or Engine Controls Connector End Views in Engine Controls - 3.8 L | ||||
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle? | -- | Go to Step 2 | Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information |
2 |
Does the scan tool indicate that the Generator PWM parameter is within the specified range? | 5-95% | Go to Step 3 | Go to Step 4 |
3 | With the scan tool, command the generator OFF. Does the generator pulse width modulation (PWM) equal the specified value? | 0% | Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems | Go to Step 4 |
4 |
Is the voltage equal to the first value with the generator OFF and equal to the second value with the generator ON? | 0 V 5 V | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 6 |
5 |
Is the generator PWM display affected? | -- | Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 7 |
6 | Test the generator turn on signal circuit for a short or open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 11 | Go to Step 9 |
7 | Test the generator field duty cycle signal circuit for a short or open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 11 | Go to Step 9 |
8 | Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the generator. Refer to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 11 | Go to Charging System Test |
9 | Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the powertrain control module (PCM). Refer to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 11 | Go to Step 10 |
10 | Replace the PCM. Refer to Control Module References in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming. Is action complete? | -- | Go to Step 11 | -- |
11 |
Does the scan tool indicate that this DTC failed this ignition? | -- | Go to Step 2 | System OK |
