GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Description

The Diagnostic System Check-Engine Controls is an organized approach to identifying a condition that is created by a malfunction in the engine control system. The Diagnostic System Check must be the starting point for any driveability concern. The Diagnostic System Check directs the service technician to the next logical step in order to diagnose the concern. Understanding and correctly using the diagnostic table reduces diagnostic time and prevents the replacement of good parts.

Diagnostic Aids

Compare the actual data with the values in the Engine Scan Tool Data List in order to determine if any parameter is not within limits. A base engine problem, for example, advanced cam timing, may substantially alter the sensor values. If the actual data does not correspond with the values in the Engine Scan Tool Data List , and the corresponding diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is not set, refer to the specific conditions that have to be met for the diagnostic to run. This information is in the supporting text for the DTC table. If a system fault is suspected, the evaporative emission (EVAP) operation, the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) operation, etc., refer to the DTCs that apply to that system. The DTC tables are not designed to be used unless a DTC is set, however, many tables begin with a functional test of the related component. This information can be a useful aid in diagnosis.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. The diagnostic tables in this section are designed for use with a scan tool. If the scan tool is inoperative, this condition must be corrected before beginning any other diagnostic procedures. DO NOT clear the DTCs unless you are instructed to do so by a diagnostic procedure.

  2. Checking for applicable service bulletins before proceeding with diagnosis is recommended.

  3. If any multiple DTCs are stored, diagnose in the following order of priority:

  4. 1. The engine control module (ECM) DTCs, P0601, P0602, P0603, P0604, or P0606
    2. The system voltage DTCs
    3. The component level DTCs--The sensors, the solenoids, the relays etc.--The multiple DTCs within this category should be diagnosed in numerical order starting with the lowest numbered DTC.
    4. The system level DTCs--The Misfire, the fuel trim, etc.
    5. The transmission DTCs--The transmission DTCs are not located in this section. Refer to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check - Automatic Transmission in Automatic Transmission 4L30E, for transmission DTC diagnosis.

When there is a known exception, a DTC table may direct the technician to diagnose a different DTC first.

  1. Capturing the stored information will preserve the data that will be lost when you are instructed to clear the DTCs at the end of a diagnostic table, or if an ECM disconnect occurs during a diagnostic procedure. The Freeze Frame data stores in the scan tools memory. Any non-emissions DTCs that are set should be written down at this time. The Freeze Frame only stores data for the emissions related DTCs. The captured information should be reviewed at the end of the diagnostic table in order to catch the next DTC in the event that multiple DTCs were stored. Follow the order of the priority as listed above.

Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

Step

Action

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Engine Controls Schematics

1

Check for one or more of the following conditions:

    • The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminates with the engine running.
    • Customer concern of powertrain performance or driveability
    • A suspected fault in a powertrain controlled component or system

Is one or more of the conditions present?

Go to Step 2

System OK

2

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  3. Connect a scan tool to the data link connector (DLC).
  4. Turn ON the scan tool power.

Does the scan tool display data?

Go to Step 3

Go to Scan Tool Does Not Communicate with Keyword Data Line in Data Link Communications

3

Does the engine crank?

Go to Step 4

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Engine Electrical in Engine Electrical

4

Does the engine start and run?

Go to Step 5

Go to Engine Cranks but Does Not Run

5

  1. Check for bulletins that may address the concern.
  2. Perform a bulletin repair as necessary.

Did a bulletin repair, correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 6

6

Check for the DTCs with the scan tool.

Are there any DTCs displayed?

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 8

7

Use the scan tool in order to capture the Freeze Frame info. Also note any DTCs that are set but are not in the Freeze Frame buffer, non-emissions related.

Is the action complete?

Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List

--

8

Compare the scan tool data with the values shown in the Scan Tool Data List . Refer to Diagnostic Aids.

Are the values normal or within typical ranges?

Go to Symptoms - Engine Controls

Go to the applicable system diagnosis