GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Important: The following steps must be completed before using the symptom tables.

  1. Perform Diagnostic System Check - Instrument Cluster before using the Symptom Tables in order to verify that all of the following are true:
  2. • There are no DTCs set.
    • The control module(s) can communicate via the serial data link.
  3. Review the system operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to the following:
  4. •  Gauge Description
    •  Indicator Description

Visual/Physical Inspection

    • Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the Instrument Cluster or Audible Warning Systems. Refer to Checking Aftermarket Accessories in Wiring Systems.
    • Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.
    • For any indicator relating to fluid level, perform a visual inspection of the fluid level before beginning diagnosis.
    • Verify that the indicators work properly during the bulb check.

Intermittent

Faulty electrical connections or wiring may be the cause of intermittent conditions. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems.

Symptom List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom:

Gauges

    •  Instrument Cluster Inoperative
    •  Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Inaccurate or Inoperative
    •  Engine Oil Pressure Gage Inaccurate or Inoperative
    •  Fuel Gage Inaccurate or Inoperative
    •  Volt Gage Inaccurate or Inoperative
    •  Speedometer Inaccurate or Inoperative
    •  Tachometer Inoperative
    •  Tachometer Inaccurate

Indicators

    • ABS Indicator Always On or Inoperative
        Refer to Diagnostic System Check in Antilock Brake System.
    • AIR BAG Indicator Always On or Inoperative
        Refer to Diagnostic System Check - SIR in SIR.
    • Brake Warning Indicator Always On or Inoperative
        Refer to Hydraulic Brake Diagnostic System Check in Hydraulic Brakes.
    • SECURITY Indicator Always On or Inoperative
        Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Theft Deterrent in Theft Deterrent.
    • SERVICE ENGINE SOON Indicator (MIL) Always On or Inoperative
        Refer to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check in Engine Controls - 4.3L.
    •  Fasten Safety Belt Indicator/Chime Always On in Seat Belts
    •  Fasten Safety Belt Indicator/Chime Inoperative in Seat Belts
    •  High Beam Indicator Always On in Lighting Systems
    •  High Beam Indicator Inoperative in Lighting Systems
    •  Turn Signal Indicators Inoperative - Left Side in Lighting Systems
    •  Turn Signal Indicator Always On - Left Side in Lighting Systems
    •  Turn Signal Indicators Inoperative - Right Side in Lighting Systems
    •  Turn Signal Indicator Always On - Right Side in Lighting Systems
    • BATTERY Indicator Always ON
        Refer to Charge Indicator Always On in Engine Electrical.
    • BATTERY Indicator Inoperative
        Refer to Charge Indicator Inoperative in Engine Electrical.
    • CHECK GAGES Indicator Always ON or Inoperative
        Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Instrument Cluster .
    •  Gate Ajar Indicator Always On in Body Rear End.
    •  Gate Ajar Indicator Inoperative in Body Rear End.
    • SERVICE 4WD Indicator Always ON or Inoperative
        Refer to Diagnostic System Check in Transfer Case.
    • TOW/HAUL Indicator Always ON. Refer to Automatic Transmissions.
    • TOW/HAUL Indicator Inoperative. Refer to Automatic Transmission.

Instrument Cluster Dimming

    •  Instrument Cluster Illumination Lamps Inoperative in Lighting Systems
    •  Instrument Cluster Illumination Lamps Do Not Dim in Lighting Systems
    •  Instrument Cluster Illumination Lamps Always On in Lighting Systems

Odometer

    •  Odometer Does Not Switch Between Trip and Season
    •  Odometer Inoperative

PRNDL Display

PRNDL Display Inaccurate or Inoperative